Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Nasolacrimal duct obstruction is a relatively common cogenitial abnormality in the neonatal population with a report incidence ranging from 6 to 20%. Differentiation from infectious conjunctivitis can be made with clinical distinction of no conjunctival injection or erythema but with signs of matting and discharge in an otherwise healthy appearing infant.
References:
Lin, I. S., Nar, M. K., Kua, K. E., & Lin, S. L. (2006). Congenital dacryocystocele with acute dacryocystitis: report of two cases. Acta Paediatr Taiwan, 47(1), 38-42.
O'Hara, M. A. (1993). Ophthalmia neonatorum. Pediatr Clin North Am, 40(4), 715-725.
Paul, T. 0., & Shepherd, R. (1994). Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction: natural history and the timing of optimal intervention. J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus, 31(6), 362-367.
These guidelines do not establish a standard of care to be followed in every case. It is recognized that each case is different and those individuals involved in providing health care are expected to use their judgment in determining what is in the best interests of the patient based on the circumstances existing at the time. It is impossible to anticipate all possible situations that may exist and to prepare guidelines for each. Accordingly these guidelines should guide care with the understanding that departures from them may be required at times.