Lacrimal apparatus
Apparatus lacrimalis
Definition
The lacrimal apparatus is the system responsible for the production, distribution, and drainage of tears.
Components
Lacrimal gland: produces tears
Excretory ducts: convey tears to the conjunctival sac
Lacrimal puncta: openings near the medial canthus
Lacrimal canaliculi: carry tears to the lacrimal sac
Lacrimal sac: collects tears
Nasolacrimal duct: drains tears into the inferior meatus of the nasal cavity
References
Machiele R, Lopez MJ, Czyz CN. Anatomy, Head and Neck: Eye Lacrimal Gland. [Updated 2023 Jul 24]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532914/
Ducker L, Rivera RY. Anatomy, Head and Neck: Eye Lacrimal Duct. [Updated 2023 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2026 Jan. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK531487/
