dacryologic

Dacryology is the study of tears and the lacrimal apparatus, including their production, distribution, and drainage. The term dacryology (or dacryology) derives from Greek words for tear and study, and the adjective "dacryologic" describes things related to tears or the lacrimal system.

The lacrimal apparatus comprises the lacrimal glands that produce tears, the tear film that coats the ocular surface, and the tear drainage system, which includes the puncta, canaliculi, lacrimal sac, and nasolacrimal duct. Tears are distributed across the cornea and conjunctiva by blinking and are drained into the nasal cavity through the nasolacrimal system. The tear film consists of lipid, aqueous, and mucin layers that maintain lubrication, protect the surface, and provide antimicrobial defense.

Clinically, dacryology addresses disorders of tear production and drainage. Common conditions include dry eye disease, epiphora (excessive tearing) due to impaired drainage, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, and inflammatory or infectious diseases such as dacryocystitis and canaliculitis. Diagnostic approaches may involve assessment of tear production and drainage, probing or irrigation of the lacrimal system, dacryocystography, and lacrimal imaging. Treatments range from artificial tears and anti-inflammatory therapy to procedures that restore drainage, such as probing, stent placement, or dacryocystorhinostomy.

In modern medical practice, dacryology is generally considered a specialty within ophthalmology, with close collaboration from oculoplastics and, when necessary, otolaryngology. It provides the framework for understanding tear physiology and managing disorders of the lacrimal system and ocular surface.