Unilateral watery discharge from the eye of a new born, with no edema or chemosis is due to –
**Core Concept**
The condition described is a common, self-limiting condition in newborns, related to the immaturity of the nasolacrimal duct and the absence of a functional nasolacrimal pump. This leads to the accumulation of tears in the eye, resulting in a watery discharge.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the anatomical and physiological immaturity of the nasolacrimal system in newborns. The nasolacrimal duct is not fully developed at birth, and the orbicularis oculi muscle, which is responsible for the nasolacrimal pump mechanism, is not yet fully functional. As a result, tears produced in the eye have difficulty draining into the nasal cavity, leading to the accumulation of tears and a watery discharge.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the underlying cause of the condition. **Option B:** This option is also incorrect as it does not relate to the nasolacrimal system or the physiological immaturity of the newborn. **Option D:** This option is incorrect as it does not accurately describe the clinical presentation of the condition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key point to remember is that the condition is self-limiting and resolves on its own as the nasolacrimal duct matures and the nasolacrimal pump mechanism becomes functional.
**Correct Answer: C. Physiological dacryocystitis (or nasolacrimal duct obstruction)**