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October Week 1 • By Admin • Dr. Ashutosh Jaiswal

CNLDO (Congenital Naso-Lacrimal Duct Obstruction)

1. What is CNLDO?

CNLDO, or Congenital Naso-Lacrimal Duct Obstruction, is a condition present at birth where the tear drainage system of the eye is blocked. This leads to excessive tearing (epiphora), recurrent eye discharge, and sometimes infections in infants.

2. What causes CNLDO?

  • ● Most commonly due to a membrane at the end of the nasolacrimal duct that fails to open after birth
  • ● Can be associated with congenital nasal or facial anomalies in rare cases
  • ● Premature infants are slightly more prone

3. Who is affected?

  • ● Newborns and infants from birth to 12 months
  • ● Both boys and girls equally
  • ● Usually unilateral, but can be bilateral

4. What are the symptoms?

  • ● Constant tearing from one or both eyes
  • ● Eye discharge, sometimes crusting around eyelids
  • ● Recurrent eye infections or conjunctivitis
  • ● Foul smell in chronic cases due to infection

5. How is CNLDO diagnosed?

  • ● Clinical examination by a pediatric ophthalmologist
  • ● Fluorescein dye disappearance test to assess tear drainage
  • ● Probing may be performed under anesthesia to confirm blockage in older infants

6. What are the treatment options?

I) Conservative / Non-surgical:

  • ● Crigler massage: Gentle massage over the lacrimal sac several times a day
  • ● Keep eyes clean and dry
  • ● Antibiotic drops if infection develops

II) Surgical treatment:

  • ● Probing of nasolacrimal duct: Usually performed after 6–12 months if conservative management fails
  • ● Silicone intubation or stent placement for persistent or complex cases
  • ● Dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) in rare, refractory cases

7. Is the condition serious?

  • ● Usually not sight-threatening
  • ● Untreated chronic blockage may lead to recurrent infections or discomfort
  • ● Early intervention ensures clear tears, healthy eyes, and comfort for the baby

7. Why choose Netram Eye Hospital, Nagpur?

  • ● Experienced pediatric ophthalmologists with specialized expertise in CNLDO management
  • ● Advanced techniques for probes, stenting, and DCR
  • ● Careful follow-up to monitor healing and tear drainage
  • ● Parent education on eyelid hygiene and massage techniques

Visit the Experts

Netram Eye Hospital, Nagpur

Address:
G6-10, Sai Krupa Apartment, Next to Chaudhari Hospital, Umred Road, Sakkardara, Nagpur – 440024

Phone:
+91 9859 804 804 / +91 9852 804 804

Website:
www.netramhospital.com