Etiology, diagnosis, management and outcomes of epiphora referrals to an oculoplastic practice.

AIM To investigate the etiology, diagnosis, management and outcome of epiphora referrals to an oculoplastic practice. METHODS Retrospective chart review of patients referred for epiphora to an oculoplastic clinic between 2005 and 2009. Patient demographics, past history, ophthalmic examination, treatment and outcome were analyzed. RESULTS There were 237 subjects with a primary complaint of epiphora. They included 130 (55%) females and 107 (45%) males with an average age of 55.9±25.9y. The most common cause of epiphora was lacrimal obstruction (46%); followed by multifactorial epiphora (22%), reflex tearing (22%) and eyelid malposition (11%). Differences in prevalence of etiology were noted in terms of age and gender distribution. Of the 182 (77%) patients who returned for follow up, 41 (23%) reported a complete resolution and 102 (56%) reported a significant improvement in their symptoms. CONCLUSION Epiphora is a common condition with many causes. A thorough history and examination are required to provide the appropriate treatment tailored to the underlying cause.