The term "glandula tarsalis" refers to the tarsal glands located on the eyelids of humans and various other mammals. The spelling of the word is fairly straightforward, with each letter pronounced as it appears. In IPA phonetic transcription, it would be transcribed as /ˈɡlændjʊlə tɑːˈseɪlɪs/. The first syllable "glan-" is pronounced with a hard "g" sound, followed by a schwa sound. The second half "dula" is pronounced with a soft "d" sound followed by a "yoo" vowel. "Tarsalis" consists of three syllables with the stress on the second syllable.
Glandula tarsalis refers to a type of gland found in the human eye, specifically in the eyelids. These glands are often referred to as the tarsal glands or Meibomian glands. The prefix "glandula" refers to an organ or tissue that secretes a substance, while "tarsalis" pertains to the tarsal region of the eyelid.
The glandula tarsalis is an essential structure involved in the production and secretion of meibum, a type of oil-like substance that forms a component of the tear film. These glands are typically located within the tarsal plates of the upper and lower eyelids. Meibum secreted by the glandula tarsalis helps to prevent tears from evaporating too quickly and contributes to the lubrication of the eye's surface.
When the glandula tarsalis becomes dysfunctional or obstructed, it can lead to an eye condition known as meibomian gland dysfunction. This condition is characterized by inadequate or poor-quality meibum secretion, resulting in symptoms such as dry eyes, irritation, and inflammation.
Understanding the structure and function of the glandula tarsalis is crucial for diagnosing and treating various eye conditions, particularly those stemming from meibomian gland dysfunction. Techniques like meibography, which allows the visualization of these glands, aid in the evaluation and management of affected individuals.
In summary, the glandula tarsalis refers to the meibomian gland, a structure within the eyelids that produces and secretes meibum to maintain tear film stability and ocular lubrication.
Tarsal gland, Meibomian gland, one of a number of sebaceous glands between the tarsus and conjunctiva of each eyelid, discharging at the edge of the lid nea the posterior border.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "glandula tarsalis" is a Latin phrase that can be broken down into two components - "glandula" and "tarsalis".
1. Glandula: The word "glandula" can be traced back to the Latin language, where it meant "small gland" or "glandular body". is derived from the Latin verb "glandere", which means "to secrete" or "to excrete". In English, the word "gland" is used to refer to an organ or group of cells that produces and releases substances that perform specific functions in the body.
2. Tarsalis: The word "tarsalis" is an adjective form derived from the Latin noun "tarsus". "Tarsus" refers to the thick, broad bone in the foot of vertebrates between the tibia and metatarsus, also known as the ankle bone.