Multiple Orbital Abscess Secondary to Dacryocystitis in an Infant

To report medical and surgical management of a 5 months old infant with multiple orbital abscesses secondary to untreated dacryocystitis.

A 5-month-old boy presented with proptosis, swelling, and redness of the right eye, which was more prominent around the medial canthus and lower lid. Symptoms started 3 months ago, and he was treated with multiple courses of systemic antibiotics. Orbital MRI revealed dilated lacrimal sac and multiple orbital abscesses. He was admitted and treated with broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics for 2 days; then, abscess drainage and nasolacrimal duct probing were performed at the same session. After these procedures, his sign and symptoms improved. There was no recurrence in a 3-months follow-up.

Untreated dacryocystitis secondary to congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction may progress to orbital abscesses. In this condition, after systemic antibiotics coverage, orbital abscess drainage, and nasolacrimal duct probing are essential for treatment.