The Microbiome of the Nasolacrimal System and Its Role in Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction

Abstract

The lacrimal sac microbiome in acquired NLDO is similar to the sinonasal microbiome. The relative abundance of Corynebacterium was reduced compared with controls. These findings suggest that an altered sinonasal microbiome may be associated with NLDO, either as a consequence or a risk factor, and merits future research.The authors have demonstrated a decreased relative abundance of Corynebacterium at the middle meatus of patients with ipsilateral nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO), compared with controls, and that the lacrimal sac microbiome is similar to the sinonasal microbiome. An altered microbial state may, therefore, be associated with NLDO, either as a consequence or a risk factor, and merits future research.