Which sign is commonly associated with canaliculitis?

• A. Concretion discharge from the canaliculus
• B. Pupil dilation
• C. Elevated intraocular pressure
• D. Corneal ulcer

Answer: (A)

Canaliculitis is an infection of the tear drainage canal, and the most telling sign is the presence of concretions within the canaliculus that can be expressed as discharge from the punctum. These sulfur‑granule–like concretions result from chronic infection (often due to Actinomyces) and are typically seen when gently probing or squeezing the canaliculus or punctum. The other options aren’t characteristic features of canaliculitis: pupil dilation isn’t a hallmark of this condition, intraocular pressure isn’t specifically elevated, and a corneal ulcer points to corneal disease rather than canalicular inflammation.