Aims: To report an unusual case of acute dacryocystits with fully patent nasolacrimal duct at follow-up after incision and curettage.
Case report: A 63-year-old patient with acute dacryocystitis and nasolacrimal duct abscess. CT orbits confirmed dacryocystitis without any orbital collection. Incision and drainage of the abscess was performed.
Results: Postoperative syringing of nasolacrimal duct demonstrated a fully patent nasolacrimal duct, with long term relief of epiphora.
Conclusion: In some patients, dacryocystorhinostomy is not required after incision and drainage of a nasolacrimal abscess; reversible causes such as dacryoliths should always be considered.