Lacrimal gland abscesses: Case series and literature review. (2nd November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Savoie, Brian; Rodgers, Rand; Gorski, Matthew
• Is Part Of: Orbit. Volume 36:Number 6(2017)
• Page Start: 428
• Page End: 432
• Publication Date: 2017-11-02
• Subjects: Dacryoadenitis -- lacrimal gland abscess -- orbital cellulitis; Eye-sockets -- Surgery -- Periodicals; Eye-sockets -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Orbit -- surgery -- Periodicals; Orbital Diseases -- Periodicals; 617.7
• DOI: 10.1080/01676830.2017.1337205
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0167-6830

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Acute dacryoadenitis with abscess formation has been rarely described. We describe four cases that resolved with incision and drainage. This includes a retrospective case series of four patients with radiologically confirmed lacrimal gland abscesses and a review of the reported cases in the literature. Computed tomography showed characteristic rim enhancing collections with central attenuation in all four cases. All patients presented with ptosis, upper eyelid erythema, and severe pain similar to scleritis. Injection of the conjunctiva and sclera was present in two patients, and a third patient presented with expression of purulent discharge onto the ocular surface upon palpation of the lacrimal gland. All patients were treated with intravenous antibiotics and underwent incision and drainage with subsequent improvement. All were monitored for 24 to 48 hours and discharged on oral antibiotics. There were no complications or recurrences. Lacrimal gland abscess formation is a rare complication of dacryoadenitis, and in our experience these patients respond well to incision and drainage in combination with systemic antibiotics.