lagrimal

Lagrimal is an adjective relating to tears or to the lacrimal apparatus of the eye. In contemporary English medical usage, the preferred term is lacrimal, but lagrimal appears as an alternate spelling or in certain languages and historical texts to describe tear-related structures or drainage.

Etymology derives from Latin lacrimalis, from lacrima meaning tear. The form lagrimal reflects translational or transliteration variations found across languages and older literature, and it is generally considered a variant rather than the standard English term.

Anatomy and terminology

In modern references, the lacrimal apparatus comprises the lacrimal gland, which produces tears; the lacrimal ducts that convey tears to the ocular surface; the lacrimal sac; and the nasolacrimal duct, which drains tears into the nasal cavity. The term lagrimal may be used to describe these tear-related structures as a group or to refer specifically to the lacrimal apparatus in certain non-English contexts. The adjacent orbit and conjunctival surface interact with the tear film to maintain ocular moisture, lubrication, and protection.

Function and clinical relevance

Tears serve to lubricate, nourish, and protect the cornea and conjunctiva. Proper drainage through the nasolacrimal system helps maintain tear balance. Disruptions can lead to conditions such as epiphora (excessive tearing) from drainage obstruction, or dry eye from insufficient tear production or altered tear composition. Diagnosis and treatment of tear drainage disorders often involve ophthalmologic examination of the lacrimal gland, lacrimal ducts, and nasolacrimal system. Additional references to lacrimal anatomy can be found under lacrimal gland and lacrimal duct terminology.