Masquerades of acquired dacryocystocele

Abstract

Introduction: Dacryocystocele can be congenital or acquired and acute or chronic, based on underlying pathology. An inferomedial anterior orbital mass lesion can masquerade an acquired dacryocystocele with similar symptomatology; however, the treatment varies. Hence, a careful examination of the swelling to differentiate these masquerades is needed to ensure rightful treatment. Patients and Methods: A retrospective, interventional study was performed on consecutive patients from January 2017 to October 2019 who presented with swelling in the lacrimal sac area of varying durations. They underwent computed tomography scans followed by surgical intervention. Their relation to the lacrimal drainage apparatus was explored. Results: During the study period, 5 such patients were found in the records. The radiology was consistent with anterior orbital mass lesions, not involving the lacrimal sac. Histopathology after surgical excision was consistent with three of the lesions being dermoid cysts, one was cavernous hemangioma and one was a solitary fibrous tumor. Conclusion: Inferomedial anterior orbital mass lesions can present as masquerades of acquired dacrycystoceles. Careful examination and high degree of suspicion is needed to distinguish these lesions and ensure correct treatment.