[Lacrimal physiology (author's transl)]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Tear Film Dynamics
• Ocular Surface Disease

Background:

• The lacrymal film is essential for maintaining ocular surface health and visual function.
• Accessory lacrymal glands contribute significantly to the tear film's stability and composition.
• Understanding the lacrymal excretory system's function is key to diagnosing and managing dry eye disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the critical importance of lacrymal film quality.
• To highlight the essential role of accessory lacrymal glands.
• To elucidate the active nature of the lacrymal excretory system and its absorptive properties.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on lacrimal physiology.
• Analysis of the functional mechanisms of the lacrymal excretory system.
• Discussion of diagnostic approaches for evaluating lacrimal system function.

Main Results:

• The lacrymal excretory system functions as an active pumping mechanism, not merely a passive channel.
• The walls of the lacrymal passages demonstrate significant absorptive capacity for the lacrymal fluid.
• Simple diagnostic tests can effectively assess the functionality of the lacrymal system.

Conclusions:

• Maintaining high-quality lacrymal film is paramount for ocular health.
• Accessory lacrymal glands are indispensable for adequate tear production and film stability.
• The active and absorptive nature of the excretory system necessitates its consideration in clinical assessments.