Lacrimal System

The Lacrimal system

Collectively, the anatomic structures responsible for the production, distribution, and drainage of tears are known as the lacrimal system. Functionally, the lacrimal system is divided into three parts:

• the secretory system, which produces the components of the tear film
• the distributional system, which spreads the tear film over the corneal and conjunctival surfaces
• the excretory system, which provides for drainage of the tear film from the eye

To maintain ocular health, an appropriate balance among these three subsystems must be maintained. For example, if tear production exceeds the drainage capacity of the excretory system, watery eyes will result. Similarly, if the quantity or quality of secreted tears is insufficient to meet the needs of the distributional system, drying of the corneal surface may occur.