Atypical presentation of fungal dacryocystitis. A report of two cases.

BACKGROUND

Candida albicans has only rarely been implicated in nasolacrimal duct obstruction. Its association with dacryoliths is well known, but it is unclear whether it is an etiologic factor or is present as a result of the obstruction.

FINDINGS

The authors report 2 cases of fungal dacryocystitis that were not associated with dacryolith formation and where Candida species appear to be the primary etiologic agent.

CONCLUSION

The possibility of a fungal infection should be considered in the evaluation of "routine" chronic dacryocystitis, particularly in the presence of corneal ulceration or postoperative endophthalmitis, as prompt initiation of appropriate therapy may be crucial.