DefinePK

Abstract

The main functions of the mammalian lacrimal secretion are to wash and moisten the anterior surface of the eyeball. The seasonal morphological changes in the lacrimal gland could be a part of the mechanism that keeps the tear film at the anterior surface of the eye of dromedary camel in balance under its hot and dry habitat. This study aimed to detect the seasonal histological and morphometric changes in the lacrimal gland of dromedary camels. The study was performed on glandular samples of 20 adult healthy camels collected during hot summer and cold winter seasons from Tambul slaughterhouse, Sudan. The histological observations showed that the gland was formed of seromucous compound tubulo-alveolar secretory units. The number of serous secretory units appeared to be increased in summer compared to those in winter in which the mucous units were increased. The morphometric measurements showed significantly (P<0.05) increased glandular volume and secretory units epithelial height with consequent non-significantly (P>0.05) decreased luminal diameter in summer compared to those in winter; non-significantly (P>0.05) increased interstitial connective tissue thickness was also observed in winter. It was concluded that the seasonal climatic variations cause structural and physiological effects on the camel lacrimal gland.