Congenital Lacrimal Sac Fistula: A Case Report and Literature Review

Congenital lacrimal sac fistula is a rare anomaly of the lacrimal system in which, an epithelium-lined lacrimal tract is connected to the skin through a fistula. In most cases, it usually presents as an asymptomatic unilateral lesion located inferolateral to the medial canthus. Several studies reported that congenital lacrimal sac fistulas may be associated with systemic anomalies like Down syndrome, renal agenesis, etc. However, in this case, we aimed to report a patient with isolated bilateral congenital lacrimal sac fistula and its surgical management.

A previously healthy 17 years old female presented with the complaint of intermittent watery discharge from her left eye since a few months ago. Physical examination revealed a small orifice in the skin at about 4 mm from the medial canthus on the medial side in both eyes without any signs of inflammation. Probing and irrigation in the left eye disclosed communication with the puncta and nose. Surgical repair was carried out through fistulectomy which successfully controlled the patient’s lacrimation.

Recent advances in surgical techniques have shown better rates of success in relieving the patient’s lacrimation through fistulectomy than the simple excision methods. Our experience with the case presented here demonstrates that this lacrimal system anomaly can be treated successfully by surgical intervention.