Differences between inflammatory pseudotumor and dacryoadenitis

Feb 08, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My son has been experiencing eye discomfort these past few days. I'm not quite sure whether it's an inflammatory pseudotumor or dacryoadenitis. What's the difference between these two conditions?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen You
The distinction between dacryoadenitis and inflammatory pseudotumor lies in their clinical presentations. Dacryoadenitis is characterized by swelling of the lacrimal gland, which may be accompanied by ptosis of the upper eyelid. A firm mass can be palpated below the lateral aspect of the supraorbital margin, though tenderness is usually absent. The eye may be displaced inward and downward, and diplopia may occur when looking upward or outward, although proptosis is rare. In contrast, inflammatory pseudotumor typically presents with eye pain, conjunctival injection and edema, proptosis, ocular motility disturbances, and decreased vision. It is important to maintain good ocular hygiene and follow a light, bland diet.