Meibomian gland

The meibomian glands ( also Tarsaldrüsen, latin tarsales glands ) are glands at the edge of the eyelids. They are named after Heinrich meibomian (1638-1700), a physician and anatomist from Helmstedt.

The glands end on cartilage rim ( tarsal plate ) of the eyelid, unlike the Zeisschen and Moll 's glands, which are also located in the eyelid. The meibomian glands give off an oily liquid that mixes with the votes of the lacrimal gland lacrimal fluid and ensures that the latter does not evaporate too quickly. The dried secretions from these glands is also referred to as " sleeping sand " in the vernacular.

Diseases

A limited or lacking (possibly genetic) of the meibomian glands, therefore, results in dry eyes. A complication can also be a chronic blepharitis ( blepharitis ). A frequent moistening of the eyes with eye drops ("artificial tears " ) and daily flushing of the eyes with lightly salted, for example, clean water ( using a small plastic cup, a so-called eye bath) gives relief.

An acute inflammation of the meibomian glands with staph can cause a stye ( hordeolum specifically internum ). If there is a chronic inflammation, we speak of a hailstone ( chalazion ). The reason for this is usually a blockage of the gland ducts.

267613
de