Tumors of the Lacrimal Sac

Tumors of the Lacrimal Sac

Epidemiology: Tumors of the lacrimal sac arerarebut areprimarily malig-nant when they do occur. They include papillomas, carcinomas, and sar-comas.

Symptoms and diagnostic considerations: Usually the tumors cause uni-lateral painless swelling followed by dacryostenosis.

Diagnostic considerations: The irregular and occasionally bizarre form ofthe structure in radiographic contrast studies is typical. Ultrasound, CT, MRI, and biopsy all contribute to confirming the diagnosis.

Differential diagnosis: Chronic dacryocystitis (see above), mucocele of theethmoid cells.

Treatment: The entire tumor should be removed.