Cast-like Fungus Obstruction of the Nasolacrimal Duct: Report of a Case

Yeast-like fungi as the cause of obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct are exceptional (Duke-Elder 1 ). Numerous reports may be found, however, of various other fungi producing obstruction of the nasolacrimal passages. Two unilateral cases of Candida albicans producing obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct were recorded by Fine and Waring. 2 Both cases were seen in women who complained of epiphora. Finally, after repeated unsuccessful irrigations, both women were spontaneously relieved by blowing from the nose a grayish-white, cylindric cast. In the first case this cast was 16 mm. long and 3 mm. in diameter, while in the second case it measured 10 by 2 mm. In both cases the cast was composed almost entirely of budding, yeast-like cells, which on histologic examination and culture proved to be C. albicans. In both cases there was immediate recovery following the extrusion of the cast-like obstruction of the duct without further treatment. The