Definition

Noun: A tarsal gland is a specific type of long, sebaceous (oil-producing) gland located within the eyelids. Its primary function is to secrete an oily substance that lubricates the eyelids and the surface of the eye, preventing the evaporation of tears and ensuring smooth eyelid movement.

Usage

The term is used in medical and anatomical contexts to describe these specific eyelid glands. * The tarsal glands are essential for maintaining a healthy tear film. * A blocked tarsal gland can lead to discomfort and inflammation.

Advanced Usage

• Meibomian gland: This is the more precise clinical synonym for a tarsal gland. The term "Meibomian gland" is predominantly used in medical literature and ophthalmology.
  • Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common cause of dry eye syndrome.

Variants and Related Words

• Meibomian gland (n): The direct synonym for tarsal gland.
• Sebaceous gland (n): The general type of gland to which the tarsal gland belongs; it produces sebum (oil).
• Stye (n): A red, painful lump near the edge of the eyelid, often caused by a bacterial infection of a tarsal (Meibomian) gland or an eyelash follicle.
  • A stye is often the result of an infected tarsal gland.

Synonyms

• Meibomian gland

Related Phrases

• Tarsal gland dysfunction: A condition where these glands do not function properly, often leading to evaporative dry eye.
• Blocked tarsal gland: When the duct of the gland becomes obstructed, which can cause a chalazion (a painless lump) or contribute to a stye if infected.

Noun

1. a long sebaceous gland that lubricates the eyelids
   • bacterial infection of a Meibomian gland produces a stye