Intraductal Meibomian Gland Probing Relieves Symptoms of Obstructive Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Invasive orifice penetration and intraductal probing seems to provide lasting rapid symptom relief for patients with O-MGD. Probing findings in this study frequently included (1) mild resistance upon orifice penetration, (2) proximal duct gritty tactile and aural sensation suggestive of keratinized cellular debris, and (3) focal variable resistance deeper within the duct, which may be relieved with the probe, suggestive of fibrovascular tissue. Taken together, these findings may offer probing characteristics that may allow for a grading system for duct obstruction. The postprobing improvement of symptoms not previously appreciated supports the notion that meibomian gland disease exists subclinically.