Tear film: layers: practice question

A Ophthalmology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Ophthalmology · Tear film: layers

Sample item

The outermost lipid layer of the tear film, which retards evaporation, is mainly secreted by which structure?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Meibomian glands

Meibomian glands in the tarsal plate secrete the oily layer. Its deficiency in meibomian dysfunction causes evaporative dry eye.

Option by option

  • A. Goblet cells

    Goblet cells produce the mucin layer that wets the cornea.

  • B. Lacrimal gland

    The main lacrimal gland produces reflex aqueous tears.

  • C. Glands of Krause

    Accessory glands of Krause produce basal aqueous tears.

  • D. Meibomian glands (correct)

    Correct. Meibomian secretions form the lipid layer.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Ophthalmology question

What is the answer to this Ophthalmology question?

The best answer is D, Meibomian glands. Meibomian glands in the tarsal plate secrete the oily layer.

Why is "Goblet cells" not the answer?

Goblet cells produce the mucin layer that wets the cornea.

Why is "Lacrimal gland" not the answer?

The main lacrimal gland produces reflex aqueous tears.

Why is "Glands of Krause" not the answer?

Accessory glands of Krause produce basal aqueous tears.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Tear film: layers in Ophthalmology. Its deficiency in meibomian dysfunction causes evaporative dry eye.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Tear film: layers?

Group the red eye by what to examine and what the pupil does. Then use the flashcards and the other Ophthalmology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.