Two Cases of Rare Lacrimal Sac Tumors Masquerading as Chronic Dacryocystitis
Author: Kubra SERBEST CEYLANOGLU
Base Hospital / Institution: ANKARA BILKENT CITY HOSPITAL
ePoster presentation
Abstract ID: 24-277
Purpose
Lacrimal sac tumors are exceedingly rare, often presenting with nonspecific symptoms that mimic more common conditions such as chronic dacryocystitis. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and appropriate treatment. We present two cases of rare lacrimal sac tumors that were initially misdiagnosed as chronic dacryocystitis, highlighting the importance of considering neoplastic processes in patients with atypical presentations.
Methods
A 50-year-old male reported chronic tearing and swelling near the left medial canthus, unresponsive to standard treatments for dacryocystitis. He had no significant medical or ocular history. Further evaluation with CT orbit and MRI revealed an irregular mass. Histopathological examination identified a primary lacrimal sac adenocarcinoma. Complete surgical resection was administered.
A 45-year-old patient who had been experiencing occasional watering in the left eye for three years presented with complaints of persistent watering and swelling.The patient had previously declined a recommended dacryocystorhinostomy. Medical history revealed chemotherapy and radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma diagnosed two years prior,with treatment completed five months ago. Examination showed a closed lacrimal sac and a firm mass in the medial canthal region, prompting urgent imaging and biopsy.Biopsy results indicated lacrimal sac metastatic rhabdomyosarcoma, and a PET scan revealed lung involvement, leading to the initiation of chemotherapy.
Results
These cases underscore the diagnostic challenges posed by lacrimal sac tumors, which can be easily mistaken for chronic dacryocystitis due to overlapping clinical features.Persistent or recurrent symptoms despite appropriate treatment should prompt further investigation, including imaging and biopsy, to exclude malignant etiologies.
Conclusion
Early recognition and accurate diagnosis of lacrimal sac tumors are crucial for optimal management and prognosis. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for neoplastic causes in patients with atypical symptoms.
Additional Authors
| First name | Last name | Base Hospital / Institution |
|---|---|---|
| Huban Sibel | ORHUN | ANKARA BILKENT CITY HOSPITAL |
| Mehmet Ali Nihat | SENDUR | ANKARA BILKENT CITY HOSPITAL |
