Morphological Studies on the Third Eyelid and its Related Structures in the One-Humped Camel (Camelus dromedarius)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Department of Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, King Faisal University

Abstract

The objective of the study was to characterize the macro- and microscopic features of the third eyelid, also called the nictitating mem- brane, and associated structures in the one-humped camel. The texture, length, thickness, and width of the normal third eyelid were studied in adult camels of both sexes. The results showed that the third eyelid of the camel was formed of a relatively large semilunar fold of conjunctiva that extended up to 3 cm from the medial canthus of the eye, over the anterior surface of the globe. Histological examination revealed that the third eyelid of the camel was formed of glandular and lymphoid tissues that were enveloped by fibrous connective tissue and supported by a cartilaginous plate. Both the bulbar and palpebral surfaces of the third eyelid were covered with stratified squamous nonkeratinized epithelium. Many goblet cells were interspersed among the epithelial cells that covered the bulbar surface, especially near the base of the third eyelid. The stroma underneath the epithelium was composed of fibrous connective tissue that was infiltrated with different types of leukocytes and that surrounded glandular tissue and lymphoid nodules. The cartilage that supported the third eyelid was of the elastic type and formed of two parts. A T- shaped segment of cartilage existed within the membrane of the third eyelid and a root-shaped appendix was embedded within the gland of the third eyelid. The gland of the third eyelid was also examined and it was found to be a tubuloalveolar mucous gland.

Keywords

Journal of Veterinary Anatomy
Volume 5, Issue 2
October 2012
Pages 71-81

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