meibum
Eyelid Oil Secretion
Plain-language definition
The oily substance secreted by meibomian glands that forms the outer layer of the tear film. Its quality and quantity are assessed in dry eye evaluation.
Where this term comes up
“Heat softens thickened meibum, the oil made by eyelid glands”
Treatment · Warm Compresses for Eye Care
“Secrete meibum (oil) with each blink”
Condition · Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
“Changing the fatty acid composition of meibum (gland oil)”
Medication · Doxycycline
- Category
- Test or diagnostic term
- Also written as
- No alternate forms listed.
Diagnostic terms describe tests, measurements, imaging, or exam techniques used to understand eye and neuro-ophthalmic problems.
Related glossary terms
- evaporative
Tear Evaporation-Related
- cornea
Clear Front Window
- hypochlorous
Antimicrobial Eyelid Cleanser
- FDA
Food and Drug Administration
- fatty acid
Essential Nutritional Fat
- omega-3
Anti-Inflammatory Fatty Acid
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.