The rarity of this disease can be attributed to the following factors: ① The lacrimal gland is located beneath the superior orbital margin, well-protected and thus less prone to trauma. Additionally, its excretory ducts open downward, reducing the likelihood of infection from the conjunctival sac. ② The lymphatic reticular cells surrounding the lacrimal gland's excretory system provide a certain degree of resistance to bacterial and viral infections. ③ Clinically, it is easily confused with eyelid gland abscess or orbital cellulitis, leading to frequent misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis.

bubble_chart Etiology

Various pestilence diseases can cause it, such as mumps, epidemic common cold, cold-damage disease, pneumonia, acute pharyngitis, etc., or it may result from the spread of inflammation in surrounding tissues. Additionally, there are cases of unknown causes, generally referred to as primary, occurring bilaterally or unilaterally, with the palpebral lacrimal gland being more susceptible than the orbital lacrimal gland.

Common pathogens include: Staphylococcus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, etc., with a few cases caused by viruses.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

The lesion is confined to the palpebral or orbital glands, or even both simultaneously, with localized pain and tearing. The outer one-third of the upper eyelid margin shows redness and swelling, accompanied by drooping of the upper eyelid (blepharoptosis) (inflammation), along with significant eyelid edema. When the upper eyelid is lifted and the eyeball is turned downward, the protruding part of the lacrimal gland may be visible. In severe cases, the eyeball may be displaced downward and inward, with swelling and tenderness of the preauricular lymph nodes. Typically, the inflammation subsides within 1–2 weeks. If suppuration occurs, it may spontaneously rupture, forming a temporary fistula, or it may transition into a subacute or chronic condition.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Apply local warm compresses and systemic antibiotics. If the lesion has matured, incise to expel pus. For eyelid lesions, make the incision through the conjunctiva, while for orbital lesions, incise through the skin.