Prevalence and Determinants of Punctal Occlusion at Ophthalmology Outpatient Clinic at Tanta University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Along with canalicular or nasolacrimal duct blockage, punctum stenosis is one of the most common causes of epiphora. The purpose of the study was to investigate the prevalence of punctal occlusion outlining their presentation varieties and etiological factors.
 Methods: This cross-section observational study conducted on 50 patient suffering from epiphora. Patients were divided into two groups: single cause(N=19) and combination of causes (N=31). Every patient underwent: taking of the history, examination (examination of the eyelids, lid closure and lagophthalmos), evaluation of the punctum (by usage slit light for visibility, appearance and the occurrence of inflammation or oedema). Schirmer, I test used for ocular surface examination.
 Results: Occlusion was significantly higher in single cause than combination of causes while stenosis was significantly lower in single cause than combination of causes groups. Grades of stenosis were significantly different between the two groups. Schirmer test, lower tear meniscus height, and side of lesion were insignificantly different between study groups.
 Conclusions: Punctal stenosis was an extremely frequent finding in individuals suffering from epiphora. Age tended to augment the prevalence of punctal stenosis, and many patients accompanied by post-cataract surgery combined with blepharitis then topical anti-glaucoma eye drops with recurrent conjunctivitis were most common association with punctal stenosis patients who had combination of causes.