Basaltränenfluss

Basaltränenfluss, also known as basal tear production, refers to the continuous, non-reflex tearing that lubricates the eye. This baseline level of tear secretion is essential for maintaining ocular health and comfort. It is produced by several glands within the eye, most notably the main lacrimal gland and accessory lacrimal glands, including the glands of Krause and Wolfring.

The tears themselves are a complex fluid composed of three layers: an oily outer layer, a watery middle layer, and a mucous inner layer. The oily layer, produced by the meibomian glands in the eyelids, prevents rapid evaporation of the watery component. The watery layer, the main component of basal tears, is produced by the lacrimal glands and contains water, electrolytes, proteins, and antibodies that nourish the cornea and wash away debris. The mucous layer, secreted by goblet cells in the conjunctiva, helps to spread the watery layer evenly across the surface of the eye.

Basal tears play a crucial role in blinking, allowing the eyelids to glide smoothly over the cornea. They provide oxygen to the avascular cornea, remove microscopic particles, and help to prevent infection. A healthy basal tear film is vital for clear vision and to prevent symptoms like dryness, irritation, and a foreign body sensation. Disruptions to basal tear production or evaporation can lead to dry eye disease, a common condition affecting millions worldwide.