Massive enlargement of the nasolacrimal canal causing epiphora and chronic maxillary sinusitis.
OBJECTIVE
Enlargement of the nasolacrimal canal (NLC) is a rare anatomic variant. We present the first report of a massively dilated NLC causing epiphora and chronic sinusitis.


METHODS
The authors conducted a literature review and case report.


RESULTS
A 65-year-old man with refractory sinonasal symptoms and a remote history of a dacryocystorhinostomy was found to have a massively dilated, air-filled NLC. Using a combined endoscopic transnasal and endoscope-assisted Caldwell-Luc approach, the posterolateral wall of the NLC was removed. The patient's symptoms were improved 10 months postoperatively.


CONCLUSIONS
Symptoms suggestive of nasolacrimal dysfunction should prompt a search for potential sinonasal pathology.
Schloegel
Luke
L
Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, St. Louis University School of Medicine, 3635 Vista Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Sindwani
Raj
R
D000368:Aged; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D007766:Lacrimal Apparatus Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D007767:Lacrimal Duct Obstruction / Q000150:complications; D008297:Male; D015523:Maxillary Sinusitis / Q000209:etiology*; D009301:Nasolacrimal Duct / Q000473:pathology*