Stenosed Glands in Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Stenosed gland orifices in a case of meibomian gland dysfunction.

Inflammation of meibomian glands together with meibomian gland dysfunction is commonly seen in patients with acne rosacea.

Clinical Features

  • Lid margin vascular engorgement and stagnantion of meibomian gland secretion.
  • The gland orifices may become stenosed and when pressure is applied to the lid margin, oil secretion can be expressed through the stenosed orifices.
  • Chronic meibomitis may lead to the thickening and blunting of the lid margin, which causes gland orifices obliteration.
  • This may progress to chronic granuloma infection (chalazion).
  • In a later stage of the gland dysfunction, subsequent superficial punctate keratitis, corneal neovasculatization and scar may result.
  • Diagnosis is usually made clinically, however in a particular case where the lesion simulates malignant lesion and clinical differentiation is difficult, biopsy confirmation is required

Treatments

  • Lid hygiene
  • Warm compress
  • Topical or systemic antibiotic
  • Possible surgical incision to enhance drainage