Lacrimal gland abscess: two case reports

BACKGROUND: Bacterial dacryoadenitis is rare and suppuration leading to abscess formation within the lacrimal gland has been very rarely reported in the antibiotic era. METHODS: The medical records and investigation results, including computed tomography (CT), of two patients with lacrimal gland abscess were reviewed. RESULTS: Two cases of lacrimal gland abscess, one a 28-year-old male and the other a 64-year-old female, are described. Both demonstrated a characteristic low-density area within an enlarged lacrimal gland on CT. The first case had been treated with antibiotics and the abscess, when drained, was sterile. The second case settled spontaneously. Neither patient suffered any sequelae of dry eye. CONCLUSIONS: Although rare, lacrimal gland abscess may still occur and may require surgical drainage if spontaneous resolution does not occur.