Otolaryngological findings in congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction and implications for prognosis

Abstract

Aim. To investigate otolaryngological abnormalities associated with congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) and their effect on the prognosis. Methods. 65 consecutive cases of CNLDO were followed up with routine otorhinolaryngological examination with tympanometry. Results. Otitis media with effusion (OME) and uvula bifida were detected in 44.6% and 9.2% of the children, respectively. Medical treatment and probing were less effective in patients with OME (p < 0.05). Conclusions. OME and uvula bifida are significant anomalies associated with CNLDO and the former has a marked effect on the prognosis. This finding may help to determine the patients who will need further treatment after massage and probing.