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Abstract ID: 24-112
Histopathological and Component Analysis of Lacrimal Sac Mucosa with Submucosal Foreign Body Migration
YASUSHI FUJITA
Purpose
This study investigates the influence of cosmetic-related foreign bodies on the lacrimal mucosa and explores their association with the development of dacryocystitis, an inflammatory condition primarily affecting females. We aim to shed light on the underlying causes of this gender discrepancy.
Methods
Lacrimal-sac mucosa specimens were obtained from three female patients (74, 88, and 89 years old) who underwent dacryocystectomy or dacryocystorhinostomy. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) was utilized to analyze these specimens and identify the composition of the foreign bodies. Additionally, we examined the relationship between histopathological changes in the lacrimal mucosa and the types of foreign bodies.
Results
Two patients exhibited submucosal foreign bodies consisting of brown particles accompanied by severe fibrosis at the obstructed area. Analysis revealed the presence of aluminum, silicate, potassium, and titanium, suggesting the inclusion of synthetic mica commonly found in cosmetic powders. The histopathological changes resembled mica-induced pneumoconiosis. In contrast, the foreign bodies in the third patient appeared as clear grains with minimal inflammatory reaction at the bottom of the lacrimal sac. Subsequent analysis indicated that these foreign bodies were composed of carbon and hydrate, suggesting a synthetic resin, likely polyethylene terephthalate (PET), commonly used in cosmetics powder for a shiny effect.
Conclusion
Our findings highlight the potential role of hidden foreign bodies, particularly mica present in cosmetics powder, in damaging the lacrimal mucosa and leading to the development of dacryocystitis. These observations may provide insights into the higher prevalence of dacryocystitis in females. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms through which cosmetic-related foreign bodies affect the lacrimal mucosa and explore preventive measures to mitigate their detrimental effects.
Additional Authors
Masashi Mimura – Department of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oculofacial Clinic Osaka
Yohei Sato – Department of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oculofacial Clinic Osaka
Tomoyuki Kashima – Department of Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oculofacial Clinic Tokyo