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

• Eye
• Eyelid
• Tear film
• Meibomian gland dysfunction
• Blepharitis
• Chalazion
• Meibomian gland carcinoma

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  Gray's Anatomy illustration of the eye
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  Meibomian gland by Heinrich Meibom
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  Diagram of Meibomian glands