Paediatric
Congenital Nasolacrimal Duct Obstruction
Also known as: CNLDO, blocked tear duct baby, epiphora in infant, watery eye infant, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, sticky eye newborn, Hasner's membrane, lacrimal probing
Clinical decision support only
OptoGuide™ supports professional judgement and does not diagnose or replace clinician responsibility.
Overview
The most common cause of watering and discharge in infants. Present in approximately 6% of newborns due to failure of Hasner's membrane to open at the lower end of the nasolacrimal duct. The majority resolve spontaneously by 12 months. Conservative management with massage and topical antibiotics for secondary infection is first-line.
What OptoGuide™ covers for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction
- Recognition patterns — symptoms, signs, and differentiators
- Don't-miss risks and escalation triggers
- Management tiers with linked Australian therapeutics
- Referral urgency, specialty, and letter drafting
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