Dacryoadenitis: The Daily PANCE Blueprint

The answer is C. Staphylococcus aureus

Dacryocystitis is an infection of the lacrimal sac usually due to an obstruction in the nasolacrimal duct. It can either be acute (infection) or chronic (due to autoimmune disease or repeated infections). The most common cause of acute dacryocystitis is Staphylococcus and then Streptococcus species. Clinical features for acute dacryocystitis include tenderness, edema, and erythema over the lacrimal space; there may be an increase in tears. Diagnosis is clinical, but cultures can be obtained if there is purulent drainage from the eye. CT scan should be done if orbital cellulitis is suspected. Treatment for acute dacryocystitis may include warm compresses, Crigler massage, and antibiotics (cephalexin or amoxicillin-clavulanate for 7-10 days). Chronic dacryocystitis is managed surgically.