Even in man these parts are remarkably free from disease, while in the
lower animals, we have literally no record of such conditions.
Inflammation of the gland (dacryo-adenitis) would be manifested by a
sensitive swelling under the outer part of the orbital process, and
upper eyelid and by lachrymation, and obstruction of the gland duct and
by a tense transparent rounded swelling inside the lid. A fistula is
possible from a penetrating wound of the lid in the same situation. In
both of the latter conditions an opening made through the palpebral
conjunctiva will allow the discharge of the tears in the proper place,
and healing of any external wound may be hastened by suture or plaster.