Arteria lacrimalis

Arteria Lacrimalis is a branch of the ophthalmic artery that supplies the lacrimal gland, the eyelid, and the conjunctiva. It is a significant part of the human anatomy and plays a crucial role in the functioning of the human eye.

Origin and Course

The Arteria Lacrimalis originates from the ophthalmic artery, which is itself a branch of the internal carotid artery. It travels laterally, passing through the lacrimal gland and dividing into several smaller branches. These branches supply blood to the upper eyelid and the conjunctiva.

Function

The primary function of the Arteria Lacrimalis is to supply oxygenated blood to the lacrimal gland, the eyelid, and the conjunctiva. The lacrimal gland is responsible for the production of tears, which are essential for maintaining the health and function of the eye. The eyelid and the conjunctiva also require a steady supply of blood to function properly.

Clinical Significance

The Arteria Lacrimalis can be affected by various medical conditions. For instance, arteriosclerosis can lead to a narrowing of the artery, reducing blood flow to the lacrimal gland, eyelid, and conjunctiva. This can result in dry eye syndrome, a condition characterized by insufficient tear production. In severe cases, it can lead to vision loss.

See Also

• Ophthalmic artery
• Internal carotid artery
• Lacrimal gland
• Eyelid
• Conjunctiva

References

• Gray, Henry. Anatomy of the Human Body. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger, 1918; Bartleby.com, 2000. www.bartleby.com/107/.
• Moore, Keith L., and Arthur F. Dalley. Clinically Oriented Anatomy. 4th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 1999.