Air Regurgitation Through the Nasolacrimal Duct During Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure Therapy in a Patient With Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Abstract

Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) is defined as the combination of daytime hypercapnia (awake PaCO2 ≥45 mm Hg) and obesity (body mass index ≥30 kg/m2). Untreated OHS is associated with comorbidities, including cardiovascular diseases, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and metabolic syndrome. Continuous positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy with non-invasive ventilation is the gold standard for treating OHS. PAP therapy is highly effective; however, some adverse effects can affect long-term compliance. Air leakage through the mouth or around a mask is a common adverse effect of PAP therapy. Air leakage through the nasolacrimal duct or due to unsealed circuits has also been reported as a complication of PAP therapy; however, it is relatively rare. Considering the negative association between the level of air leakage and adherence to PAP therapy, clarifying the cause of air leakage during PAP therapy and minimizing it are key to successful outcomes. We report a case of air leakage through the nasolacrimal duct that was improved by inserting a gel foam patch inside the lacrimal sac of a patient with OHS with a history of reconstructive surgery for nasolacrimal duct obstruction.