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AnatomyHead and neckOrbit and contentsLacrimal caruncle
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AnatomyHead and neckOrbit and contentsLacrimal caruncle

Lacrimal caruncle

Author: Edwin Ocran, MBChB, MSc • Reviewer: Dimitrios Mytilinaios, MD, PhD
Last reviewed: March 11, 2024
Reading time: 2 minutes

Recommended video: Eyelids and tunica conjunctiva [21:20]
Sagittal section of the orbital cavity and eyeball.
Lacrimal caruncle
Caruncula lacrimalis
Synonyms: none

The lacrimal caruncle is a small, reddish, nodular structure located within the lacrimal lake, which is a small triangular space that serves as a collection point for tears. It lies in the medial palpebral commissure, where the eyelids meet at the medial angle of the eye.

The lacrimal caruncle is an area of moist, modified skin. It contains ciliary glands, which are a type of modified sweat glands and produces a dense secretion which contributes to the formation of the coarse, grainy substance frequently found around the eyelids upon waking.

Additionally, it bears fine hairs that help in trapping and removing small particles or debris, and potentially help in the even distribution of the tear film across the eye surface.

Terminology English: Lacrimal caruncle
Latin: Caruncula lacrimalis
Definition Small, red nodule at the medial canthus of the eye
Function Contributes to eye lubrication and maintenance of the tear film

Learn more about the lacrimal caruncle and the anatomy of the eyelids and lacrimal apparatus in the following study unit:

Eyelids and lacrimal apparatus Explore study unit

Sources

All content published on Kenhub is reviewed by medical and anatomy experts. The information we provide is grounded on academic literature and peer-reviewed research. Kenhub does not provide medical advice. You can learn more about our content creation and review standards by reading our content quality guidelines.
  • Drake, R., Vogl, W., Mitchell, A. & Gray, H. (2015). Gray's anatomy for students. Philadelphia, PA: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.
  • McKinley, M. & Loughlin, V. (2012). Human anatomy. New York: McGraw-Hill.
    Mescher, A. L., & Junqueira, L. C. (2013). Junqueira's basic histology: Text & atlas. McGraw-Hill Medical.
  • Moore, K. L., Dalley, A. F., & Agur, A. M. R. (2014). Clinically Oriented Anatomy (7th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
  • Standring, S. (2016). Gray's Anatomy (41st ed.). Edinburgh: Elsevier Churchill Livingstone

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