Treatment of Acute Dacryocystitis in Adults (≥18 Years)

This protocol covers the structured initial management of adults aged 18 and older who present with an acute episode of dacryocystitis.

Clinical Scenario

Adult patients (≥18 years) presenting with acute dacryocystitis. The recommended initial approach begins with lacrimal drainage culture sampling — obtained by puncture and aspiration of the lacrimal sac — before starting empirical treatment with antibiotics and anti-inflammatories.

Treatment Approach

Management combines local heat application with massage and systemic antibiotic therapy — administered orally or intravenously depending on clinical severity — alongside anti-inflammatory treatment. When an abscess is present, drainage of the lacrimal sac is part of the approach.

Full drug selection, route, and sequencing are detailed in the complete protocol below.

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References

DOI: 10.1007/s11908-012-0238-8

As for the management of adult patients with acute episodes of dacryocystitis, the initial approach should consist in the taking of lacrimal drainage culture samples by puncture and aspiration of the lacrimal sac, followed by empirical treatment with oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatories.

In adults, the most widely recommended treatment for the management of people with acute dacryocystitis consists of the application of heat with massage, systemic antibiotics (oral or intravenous administration, as appropriate) and percutaneous abscess drainage.

On the other hand, for cases that course with a clear abscess, drainage by puncture and aspiration of the lacrimal sac seems to be the technique of choice for treatment, as well as for the diagnostic information it provides.

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