Fibrotic Tissue Blocks the Meibomian Glands (Periductal Fibrosis)

Fibrotic and vascularized tissue is often found with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This is sometimes called obstructive meibomian gland dysfunction (o-MGD). The fibrotic tissue that typically grows along the gland’s length (periductal fibrosis) can partially or completely constrict the duct in one or more locations along the gland. When the glands are constricted by fibrotic tissue, even if meibum is produced, this meibum has no path to escape. As a result, meibum is not secreted. Lids can become very tender and feel heavy. Even warm compresses and lid massage will not clear the vascularized fibrotic tissue.

Reference

The International Workshop on meibomian gland dysfunction: report of the Subcommittee on Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology of the meibomian gland
Knop E, Knop N, Millar T, Obata H, Sullivan DA.
Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science
2011 Mar 30;52(4):1938-78. doi: 10.1167/iovs.10-6997c. Print 2011 Mar.
PMID:21450915
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