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Blocked tear duct

Definition:
A partial or complete obstruction in the duct system that carries tears away from the surface of the eye to the nose.

Alternative Names:
Dacryostenosis; Blocked nasolacrimal duct

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Tears from the surface of the eye are normally drained into the nose by a convoluted tube called the nasolacrimal duct. If this duct is blocked, the tears will accumulate and overflow onto the cheek, even when a person isn't crying.

In children, the duct may not be completely developed at birth. This often resolves on its own. In adults, the duct can be damaged by infection, injury or tumor.



Review Date: 11/4/2002
Reviewed By: Raymond S. Douglas M.D., Ph.D. Department of Ophthalmology, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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