Retention cysts of accessory lacrimal gland of Conjunctiva

 Retention cysts of the accessory lacrimal gland of the conjunctiva are benign, fluid-filled cysts that develop in the conjunctiva, the mucous membrane that covers the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelid. These cysts are believed to form as a result of obstruction of the ducts of the accessory lacrimal gland, which is located in the upper lateral part of the conjunctiva near the nose.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Retention Cysts

Retention cysts are usually asymptomatic and are discovered incidentally during a routine eye examination. They are typically small, round, and translucent, and they do not cause any vision problems. However, in some cases, the cyst may become large enough to cause symptoms such as:

  • Blurred vision
  • Irritation or discomfort in the eye
  • A feeling of a foreign body in the eye
  • Mild pain or pressure in the eye
  • A visible lump in the eye

If a cyst is suspected, it can be diagnosed by an ophthalmologist during a comprehensive eye examination, which may include a visual acuity test, a slit-lamp examination, and sometimes a CT or MRI scan to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of Retention Cysts

In most cases, retention cysts do not require treatment and can be observed over time. However, if the cyst causes symptoms, is cosmetically unappealing, or if it is growing, it can be removed. The treatment options for removal include:

  • Excision: The cyst can be surgically removed by an ophthalmologist, often performed under local anesthesia. The cyst and its surrounding capsule are removed to prevent recurrence.
  • Cryotherapy: The cyst can be frozen and removed with a surgical instrument, generally under local anesthesia
  • Puncturing and Drainage: A fine needle is inserted into the cyst to release its contents, which is then drained and the cyst is closely monitored for recurrence.

Prognosis and Prevention

The prognosis for retention cysts is generally good. The cysts are benign and do not usually recur after treatment. However, the risk of recurrence is higher in cases where the cyst was not completely removed. To minimize the risk of recurrence, it is important to closely follow the postoperative instructions provided by the ophthalmologist. In addition, good eye hygiene, such as keeping the eyes clean and avoiding rubbing them, can help prevent the formation of retention cysts.

Conclusion

Retention cysts of the accessory lacrimal gland of the conjunctiva are benign, fluid-filled cysts that typically do not cause any symptoms. These cysts can be discovered during a routine eye examination and can be treated with surgery, cryotherapy or puncturing and drainage if they cause symptoms, are cosmetically unappealing, or are growing. The prognosis is generally good, but to minimize the risk of recurrence, it is important to closely follow the postoperative instructions provided by the ophthalmologist and to practice good eye hygiene.

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