Punctal stenosis

What it means

Punctal stenosis is a condition in which the external opening of the lacrimal canaliculus is narrowed or occluded.

Epiphora is a common complaint encountered by ophthalmologists, with a broad differential diagnosis. One of the least discussed etiologies of epiphora is stenosis of the external lacrimal punctum. When it occurs, the most common presenting symptom is tearing, but patients may have vague complaints of ocular discomfort.

Rare diseases that can present with this2

The range is how often this sign appears among people diagnosed with each disease — it is not a probability of having any of them. Many of these signs also occur in common, non-rare conditions. A sign on this page is a conversation to have with a clinician, not a conclusion.

Part of the broader category

Also called: Lacrimal punctum stenosis · Stenosis of the lacrimal punctum