The Meibomian Gland Score (MGS) is a standardized clinical tool used to assess the functional quality of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for secreting the oily layer of the tear film. Dysfunction in these glands is a common cause of dry eye disease and evaporative dry eye. The scoring typically involves gentle expression of the meibomian glands, usually from a designated number of glands (commonly 15, e.g., 5 each from the nasal, central, and temporal parts of the lower eyelid). Each gland is evaluated based on the quality of the secretion it produces.
Scoring Criteria per Gland:
Each gland is scored on a 0-3 scale:
0 = No secretion
- = Inspissated/toothpaste-like secretion
- = Cloudy secretion
- = Clear, healthy oil
If 15 glands are assessed, the maximum total score is 45 (15 glands × 3 points per gland).
A higher total MGS reflects better meibomian gland function and healthier tear film, indicating a more favorable condition.