Meibomian gland dysfunctions related with ocular surface pathology

Abstract

Meibomian Glands are the sebum producting glands located in both, the upper and lower eyelids, in number about 25-30. The secretion forms the external layer of the tear film, which prevents the evaporation of the water from the tear film. The Meibomian glands are modified sebaceous glands. Meibomian gland secretion decreases with age and in normal subjects only 45 % of them are active. The aim of the paper is to bring to attention the correlation between MGD and the ocular surface disorders. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a condition of Meibomian gland obstruction and is frequently associated with many ocular diseases. We will present the pathology of ocular surface related with dysfunction of mebomian glands like, posterior blepharitis or meibomitis, chalasion, acnee rosacea, meibomian keratoconjunctivitis, evaporative dry eye syndrom, disconfort in contact lens wearers, ocular penphigoid etc. MGD is a very frequent chronic condition in the general population, but yet often overlooked in ophthalmic practice with the result of an important number of patients who are not really cured and satisfied. The patients with lid margin diseases should be always examined closely to evaluate connection with MGD, because complications of MGD are common and may involve severe ocular surface damage.