Role of allergy in primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to determine the role of allergy in primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction. METHODS: A total of 41 patients were enrolled in the study, 41 of whom had primary unilateral acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction. All patients included in the study were evaluated by anterior rhinoscopy, endoscopic nasal examination, and multiprick skin test to reveal allergic rhinitis. RESULTS: Allergy incidence was found to be high in study group. This was statistically significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Although primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction seems to be an ophthalmologic problem, rhinologic problems have great importance in etiology. Detailed endoscopic examination and multiprick skin test will reveal the possible role of allergic rhinitis. This may increase the success rate both of the conservative treatment options and of the surgical treatment.