Lacrimal: regurgitation test: practice question

A Ophthalmology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Ophthalmology · Lacrimal: regurgitation test

Sample item

On pressing over the lacrimal sac, mucopurulent fluid regurgitates through the punctum. What does this show?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

C. Obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct with a distended sac

Regurgitation of mucus or pus from the sac indicates nasolacrimal duct obstruction with mucocele or dacryocystitis. In canalicular obstruction the sac is empty.

Option by option

  • A. Canalicular block

    Canalicular block gives no reflux from the sac.

  • B. Punctal agenesis

    Punctal agenesis gives no reflux at all.

  • C. Obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct with a distended sac (correct)

    Correct. Fluid in the sac signals a distal block.

  • D. Normal drainage

    Normal drainage gives no reflux.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Ophthalmology question

What is the answer to this Ophthalmology question?

The best answer is C, Obstruction of the nasolacrimal duct with a distended sac. Regurgitation of mucus or pus from the sac indicates nasolacrimal duct obstruction with mucocele or dacryocystitis.

Why is "Canalicular block" not the answer?

Canalicular block gives no reflux from the sac.

Why is "Punctal agenesis" not the answer?

Punctal agenesis gives no reflux at all.

Why is "Normal drainage" not the answer?

Normal drainage gives no reflux.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Lacrimal: regurgitation test in Ophthalmology. In canalicular obstruction the sac is empty.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Lacrimal: regurgitation test?

Group the red eye by what to examine and what the pupil does. Then use the flashcards and the other Ophthalmology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.