MEIBOMIAN GLANDS Meaning and
Definition
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Meibomian glands are small, sebaceous (oil-producing) glands located on the eyelids, specifically along the inner edge of the eyelid margin. They are named after Heinrich Meibom, a German physician who first described them in the 17th century. These glands play a vital role in maintaining the health and lubrication of the eyes.
The meibomian glands secrete an oily substance called meibum, which is responsible for forming the lipid (oily) layer of the tear film that covers the surface of the eye. This layer helps to prevent excessive evaporation of tears, keeping the eyes moist and preventing dryness. It also aids in reducing tear film surface tension, facilitating even spreading of tears across the eye when blinking.
When functioning properly, the meibomian glands release this oil onto the surface of the eye, promoting proper tear film stability. However, certain conditions or factors can disrupt their normal functioning, leading to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a common eye condition. MGD can result in insufficient or poor quality meibum secretion, causing dry eyes, eye irritation, inflammation, and potentially leading to more severe complications if left untreated.
Treatment options for meibomian gland dysfunction focus on maintaining or restoring normal gland function, and may include warm compresses, lid hygiene, prescribing artificial tears, and in more severe cases, specialized medical procedures to clear blocked glands. Regular eye examinations and consultations with an eye care professional are essential for diagnosing and managing meibomian gland dysfunction effectively.
Common Misspellings for MEIBOMIAN GLANDS
- neibomian glands
- keibomian glands
- jeibomian glands
- mwibomian glands
- msibomian glands
- mdibomian glands
- mribomian glands
- m4ibomian glands
- m3ibomian glands
- meubomian glands
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- mekbomian glands
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- me8bomian glands
- meivomian glands
- meinomian glands
- meihomian glands
- meigomian glands
- meibimian glands
Etymology of MEIBOMIAN GLANDS
The word "Meibomian" is derived from the surname of a German anatomist named Heinrich Meibom (1638-1700). Meibom is credited with providing a detailed description of the glands in the eyelids that now bear his name. These glands, also known as tarsal glands, were first identified by Meibom in his work "De Vasis Palpebrarum Novis Epistola" published in 1666. They are responsible for producing oily secretions that help lubricate and protect the eye.
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