What is the oil gland of the eyelids called?

• A. Sebaceous Glands
• B. Meibomian Glands
• C. Apocrine Glands
• D. Eccrine Glands

Answer: (B)

The eyelids’ oil-secreting glands are the Meibomian glands. They are specialized sebaceous glands located along the eyelid margins (in the tarsal plates). Their job is to produce meibum, a lipid-rich substance that coats the tear film, preventing evaporation and helping tears spread evenly over the eye. This lipid layer is essential for tear film stability and comfort; when these glands are blocked or inflamed, it can lead to conditions like blepharitis or chalazion. Other gland types listed aren’t located in the eyelids as the oil-producing glands: sebaceous glands elsewhere make sebum with different roles, apocrine glands occur in areas like the armpits and groin, and eccrine glands are the widespread sweat glands.