Lacrimal Gland, Tear Film, and Dry Eye Syndromes 3

Download or read book Lacrimal Gland, Tear Film, and Dry Eye Syndromes 3 written by David A. Sullivan and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2003-01-31 with total page 686 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: During the past several decades, a significant international research effort has been directed towards understanding the composition and regulation of the preocular tear film. This effort has been motivated by the recognition that the tear film plays a critical role in maintaining corneal and conjunctival integrity, protecting against microbial challenge and preserving visual acuity. In addition, research has been stimulated by the knowledge that alteration or deficiency of the tear film, which occurs in numerous individuals throughout the world, may lead to desiccation of the ocular surface, ulceration and perforation of the cornea, an increased incidence of infectious disease, and potentionally pronounced visual disability and blindness.