Canaliculitis is a chronic infection of the tear drainage canaliculi near the inner corner of the eyelids. It often causes persistent discharge and redness.
Signs and causes
The condition is frequently underdiagnosed because it can mimic conjunctivitis.
- Localised tenderness and pouting of the punctum
- Chronic mucous or gritty discharge that may contain “sulphur granules”
- Often caused by Actinomyces species or other bacteria and fungi
- Expression of concretions when the canaliculus is pressed
Treatment
Successful management usually requires both surgery and medication.
- Canaliculotomy with curettage to remove infected concretions
- Topical and sometimes systemic antibiotics guided by culture
- Warm compresses and lid hygiene to support healing
- Follow-up to ensure symptoms resolve and drainage function returns
