[Lacrimal duct tumors: diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas].

INTRODUCTION

Fewer than 250 primary tumors of the lacrimal duct have been reported in the international literature. Because their signs and symptoms are nonspecific and usually subclinical, delayed diagnosis is common. Treatment for malignant epithelial tumors is surgical, with or without radiation.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The present study is a retrospective analysis of five patients with malignant lacrimal duct tumors.

RESULTS

Three patients were diagnosed with carcinoma requiring wide en bloc surgical resection with surgical reconstruction. One underwent adjuvant radiation therapy. Another experienced simultaneous local and lymph node recurrence after 3 years and underwent curative surgery. Two additional patients were diagnosed with diffuse malignant large B-cell non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

DISCUSSION

Early symptoms of lacrimal duct tumors are nonspecific and mimic acute dacryocystitis. Lacrimal system CT, MRI and rhinoscopy may allow for earlier diagnosis. Surgical treatment requires resection with wide margins and reconstruction of the medial canthal region.

CONCLUSION

Only an early diagnosis can reduce the impairment related to surgery and the extent of the required reconstruction, as well as improve survival.