Upper eyelid critical to gauge health of meibomian glands

Published on Healio’s Primary Care Optometry News, this article features expert clinical commentary that highlights a key oversight in current meibomian gland evaluation: the widespread practice of imaging only the lower eyelid. The authors and contributing experts argue that this approach risks missing early signs of meibomian gland dysfunction that manifest first in the upper lid.

With perspective from Alek Karthikeyan, OD, FAAO, the article reinforces the clinical importance of incorporating upper eyelid meibography into routine diagnostic workflows. The expert commentary adds practical weight to the growing body of research calling for dual-lid evaluation.

For clinicians looking to align their practice with emerging clinical recommendations, this article offers a concise and accessible overview of why upper eyelid assessment is a necessary step — not an optional one.