Øjenlågets

The term øjenlågets is the Danish possessive form referring to the eyelid, the protective fold of skin covering the anterior portion of the eyeball. In anatomy, the eyelids (upper and lower) are essential for protecting the ocular surface, spreading the tear film, and aiding lubrication and comfort.

Anatomy and structure

Each eyelid consists of multiple layers: skin, subcutaneous tissue, a muscular layer containing the orbicularis oculi and the levator palpebrae superioris (with the superior tarsal muscle providing additional eyelid elevation), the dense tarsal plate, and the palpebral conjunctiva lining the inner surface. The eyelid margin houses lashes and glandular elements, including Meibomian glands within the tarsal plates, which secrete lipid to stabilize the tear film. External glands, such as Zeis and Moll, associate with eyelashes. The eyelids terminate at the medial and lateral canthi, forming the palpebral fissure, with small openings and tear drainage structures nearby.

Function

Blinking distributes and spreads the tear film across the ocular surface, providing lubrication, nutrients, and protection against debris. The eyelids protect the eye from desiccation, bright light, and mechanical irritation. They also contribute to tear drainage via the lacrimal apparatus and conjunctival secretions that help maintain a smooth refractive surface.

Clinical notes

Common eyelid conditions include blepharitis (inflammation of the lid margins), chalazion (blockage of Meibomian glands), stye or hordeolum (infection), ptosis (drooping eyelid due to levator dysfunction), and entropion or ectropion (inward or outward turning of the lid). Aging and inflammatory diseases can affect lid function and tear distribution.

See also: eyelid anatomy, tear film, Meibomian glands.