KHẢO SÁT ĐẶC ĐIỂM LÂM SÀNG VÀ YẾU TỐ VI SINH HỌC GÂY VIÊM LỆ QUẢN

Abstract

Introduction: Canaliculitis is an uncommon inflammatory condition of the canaliculi within the lacrimal drainage system ^[5,9], which is often overlooked and prolonged due to misdiagnosis as other ocular surface disorders ^[3]. Previous studies have demonstrated that Actinomyces israelii is the most common pathogen causing canaliculitis ^[3,5]. Globally, literature on the clinical features of canaliculitis is scarce ^[7]. In Vietnam, the diagnosis and treatment of canaliculitis are often missed due to limited knowledge of the disease and its causative agents. Misdiagnosis frequently leads to unnecessary procedures. To address this gap, we conducted a study titled: “Clinical and microbiological features of canaliculitis”, aiming to better understand the clinical characteristics and microbiological factors associated with canaliculitis, thereby contributing to early diagnosis and improved treatment strategies. Objective: To identify the microbiological factors causing canaliculitis. Study methods: A case series study. We collected data from 25 eyes that met the diagnostic criteria for canaliculitis. Results: The average age was 57.16, and the condition was more common in females than males. The most prominent symptom, observed in 100% of patients, included mucopurulent discharge and pus expression upon pressing the punctum. Microbiological analysis revealed an 88% positive culture rate, with 22.73% of samples demonstrating co-infection with two microbial species. The most frequently isolated pathogen was the Gram-positive anaerobic bacterium Parvimonas micra, accounting for 31.82% of cases. Conclusion: Canaliculitis should be suspected in any patient presenting with unexplained tearing. Previously, primary canaliculitis was predominantly attributed to Actinomyces. However, recent research indicates that other anaerobic microorganisms, particularly Parvimonas spp., have emerged as the most common causative agents.