Meibomian gland
Meibomian gland (also known as tarsal glands) are holocrine type of exocrine glands, located in the eyelids. They are named after Heinrich Meibom, a German doctor who first described and studied them.
Anatomy
The Meibomian glands are located within the tarsal plate of the upper and lower eyelids. There are about 25 to 40 glands in the upper eyelid and 20 to 30 in the lower eyelid. The glands are vertically oriented and parallel to each other. The ducts of the Meibomian glands open at the rim of the eyelid, near the lashes.
Function
The Meibomian glands produce a type of sebum called meibum. Meibum is an oily substance that prevents the tear film from evaporating and keeps the eye moist. It also provides a smooth surface for the eyelid to slide over the cornea.
Disorders
Disorders of the Meibomian glands can lead to a variety of eye conditions. The most common disorder is Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which can cause dry eye syndrome and blepharitis. Other disorders include chalazion, a cyst in the eyelid caused by inflammation of a blocked Meibomian gland, and Meibomian gland carcinoma, a rare type of eyelid cancer.
Treatment
Treatment for Meibomian gland disorders depends on the specific condition. For MGD, treatment may include warm compresses, eyelid massages, and medications such as antibiotics or corticosteroids. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
See also
| Anatomy of the globe of the human eye | ||||||||||||||||||
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| Exocrine system | ||||||||
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This Exocrine system related article is a stub.
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Gray's Anatomy illustration of the eye
Meibomian gland by Heinrich Meibom
Diagram of Meibomian glands
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