Where is the conjunctival sac located in dogs? - briefly
The conjunctival sac in dogs is located between the eyelids and the surface of the eyeball. It is a protective mucous membrane that covers the inner surfaces of the eyelids and the anterior part of the eye.
Where is the conjunctival sac located in dogs? - in detail
The conjunctival sac in dogs, also known as the palpebral or fornix conjunctiva, is a continuous mucous membrane that lines the inner surface of the eyelids and extends onto the anterior portion of the eyeball itself. This anatomical structure plays a crucial role in maintaining ocular health by providing a protective barrier against irritants and pathogens.
In detail, the conjunctival sac begins at the medial canthus (the inner corner of the eye) and extends laterally to the edge of each eyelid. It covers the palpebral conjunctiva on the inner surface of the upper and lower lids and continues as the bulbar conjunctiva, which adheres to the sclera (the white part of the eyeball). The junction between these two parts is known as the limbus, a region where the cornea meets the sclera.
The conjunctival sac also includes small depressions or folds called the plica semilunaris and nicitans gland, which are located in the upper eyelid near the margin. These structures contribute to the production of tears and help distribute them evenly across the eye's surface.
Understanding the location and anatomy of the conjunctival sac is essential for veterinary professionals when diagnosing and treating various ocular conditions, such as conjunctivitis or dry eye syndrome, in dogs.