AUTHOR=Lin Yu-An , Zhang Yujie , Shi Ke , Wu Huping , Ou Shangkun 

TITLE=Advances in clinical examination of lacrimal gland

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Medicine

VOLUME=Volume 10 - 2023

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2023.1257209

DOI=10.3389/fmed.2023.1257209

ISSN=2296-858X

ABSTRACT=In humans, the lacrimal gland is located in the socket of the frontal bone above the outer orbital area. As an essential part of the eye surface, the gland is fixed to the orbital periosteum by connective tissue. the lacrimal gland passes through the outer tendon membrane, which divides the gland into larger orbital and minor eyelid glands. The lacrimal glands are the main contributors to tear film. They secrete electrolytes, proteins, and water to help nourish and protect the eye's surface. Furthermore, clinically, lacrimal glands are associated with a variety of inflammatory reactions and immune factors and are also vulnerable sites for tumours. Changes in tear gland morphology or secretory function affect the tear film stability and tear secretion quality. Various technological devices have been developed and applied to lacrimal glands. This article systematically reviewed the clinical examination of the lacrimal gland to help inform personalised strategies for the diagnosis of lacrimal gland-related diseases.