Embryology of the Lacrimal Drainage System

Abstract

Knowledge of the embryological development of the lacrimal drainage system (LDS) is important to understand the congenital malformations [1]. The lacrimal drainage pathway includes lacrimal puncta, lacrimal canaliculi, lacrimal sac and nasolacrimal duct. These structures collect the tears and drain it into the nasal cavity [2]. Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) is the most common NLD defect and presents in multiple forms. Embryological developmental defects are common in the lacrimal system and some of them do not produce symptoms.