What is the most appropriate treatment for an acute case of dacryocystitis?

In an acute case of dacryocystitis, which is an inflammation or infection of the lacrimal sac, the most appropriate treatment is intravenous antibiotics. This condition often occurs due to blockage of the nasolacrimal duct, leading to accumulation of tears that can become infected.

Intravenous antibiotics are crucial for managing the infection, particularly when the condition is acute and there is a high risk of complications, such as abscess formation or systemic infection. Oral or topical antibiotics are typically insufficient for treating acute cases, as they may not achieve adequate concentrations at the site of infection.

Warm compresses can provide symptomatic relief and assist in drainage, but they do not address the underlying infection effectively. Oral antihistamines may not play a role in treating dacryocystitis, as the issue at hand is primarily infection-related rather than allergy-related.

Using intravenous antibiotics helps ensure that effective medication reaches the inflamed tissues quickly and can help prevent complications, making it the most appropriate choice in this scenario.