Argon Laser Photocoagulation in the Treatment of the Palpebral Lobe Cysts of the Lacrimal Gland (Dacryops)

Abstract

Dacryops is a closed cyst that develops on the palpebral lobe of the lacrimal gland, manifesting in the region of the external canthus. Its slow and insidious growth causes mechanical and aesthetic problems that do not regress spontaneously. Treatment involves excision of the cyst while sparing the adjacent glandular tissues. In cases associated with hypolacrimation, marsupialization of the cyst is indicated. To obtain a reduction of the cyst to an aesthetically acceptable level in cases of simple dacryops, the authors suggest argon laser therapy, which avoids the risks related to surgery and general anesthesia and eliminates the need for hospitalization. Two patients with simple dacryops were treated with blue-green argon laser under local anesthesia. At the end of follow-up, the cysts had been clinically reduced in volume and were not visible by external examination. In cases of simple dacryops, laser therapy is suitable for the reduction of the cyst. Photocoagulation treatment is not advisable in cases that are complicated by fistulas or where the clinical presentation is atypical.