The lacrimal caruncle, or caruncula lacrimalis, is the small, pink, globular nodule at the inner corner (the medial canthus) of the eye.[1] It consists of tissue types of neighbouring eye structures. It may suffer from lesions and allergic inflammation.
The lacrimal caruncle may have a lesion.[3] This can have any one of a number of causes, which may be difficult to diagnose.[3] Cancer is a rare cause.[3][4] These lesions include papillomas and oncocytomas.[4]
Sweat glands and oil glands are contained in the caruncle of the eye (lacrimal caruncle in medial canthus). As with all oil glands, lacrimal caruncles can become clogged, causing a pimple, whitehead, or pustule beneath the skin. Clogged oil and sweat glands in the caruncle can affect tear ducts. Treatment for dry eyes due to clogged glands includes refraining from rubbing the eyes and rinsing the eyes with clear water frequently during the day, either with clean hands or a spray faucet. Additionally, one can use a warm damp cloth on the eye, which will help the clogged pore to open up and release some pressure. Anti-bacterial eye drops may also be prescribed. If the pustules enlarge, an oral antibiotic may be prescribed. If lesions such as cysts form, they must be surgically drained; this operation is rarely necessary. [5] If it affects the tear sac it may be dacryocystitis.
^Levy, J., Ilsar, M., Deckel, Y. et al. Lesions of the caruncle: a description of 42 cases and a review of the literature. Eye 23, 1004–1018 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/eye.2008.316
Additional images
Extrinsic eye muscle. Nerves of orbita. Deep dissection
Small white lesion on lacrimal caruncle, most likely a cyst
