Histochemical Analysis of Lacrimal Concretions in a Patient Using Rebamipide Ophthalmic Suspension: Case Report

Abstract

Concretions of the lacrimal drainage system can cause dacryocystitis. In the present study, our patient developed dacryocystisis with lacrimal concretions of a white soft mass. Rebamipide ophthalmic suspension had been applied for treatment of dry eye. To evaluate the pathogenic mechanism of the case, histological and chemical studies were performed. Our case was woman in her seventies. She had a medical history of rheumatoid arthritis. She was referred to our hospital for dacryocystitis after showing a poor response to treatment with antibiotic agents. A head computed tomography (CT) scan showed ductal high-density deposits along the lacrimal sacs. During dacryocystotomy, the hypertrophy of the lacrimal sacs was found replete with pus and cottage cheese-like white substances. The extracts were surgically removed, and histological and chemical analysis was performed. The histological examination showed granulation tissues and acellular amorphous material with crystal-like structures. Positive staining by Alcian blue and Kossa was found in crystal-like legions. The extract obtained from the concretions showed the same fluorescence band and UV absorption spectrum in thin layer chromatography (TLC) and spectrometry, respectively, as rebamipide. Our findings suggest that the obstruction by lacrimal concretions containing rebamipide resulted in dacryocystitis in this case. In addition, it is speculated that in patients who have impaired tear secretion, refractory dacryocystitis may be evoked following the accumulation of rebamipide in the lacrimal sacs.