An infection of the lacrimal sac is known as which condition?

• A. Dacryoadenitis
• B. Dacryocystitis
• C. Dacryocystocele
• D. Dacryostenosis

Answer: (B)

The infection of the lacrimal sac is called dacryocystitis. The lacrimal sac is the part of the tear drainage system that sits near the medial canthus, so when it becomes infected, the inflammation and infection are termed dacryocystitis.

To distinguish related terms: dacryoadenitis is infection of the lacrimal gland (causing swelling higher on the eyelid), dacryocystocele is a cystic dilation of the lacrimal sac from duct obstruction (often not infected), and dacryostenosis is narrowing or blockage of the tear drainage pathway that can lead to tearing but is not itself an infection. Dacryocystitis often presents with a tender, red swelling at the medial canthus and may include purulent discharge or fever in acute cases.