Gross and microscopic anatomy of the extraorbital lacrimal gland of the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus).

PURPOSE

The lacrimal gland is often selected for microscopic examination in toxicologic studies. However, this gland is difficult to find within the orbit in marmosets at necropsy. Therefore, we examined the extraorbital lacrimal glands in marmosets.

METHODS

The formalin-fixed craniums of four marmosets were used in a topographic study to confirm location of the lacrimal gland, and the results were applied to a routine toxicologic study in marmosets.

RESULTS

The extraorbital lacrimal gland was located on the temporal surface of the zygomaticofrontal process and was covered with the temporalis muscle. The gland was easily detached from the surrounding tissue, and its histologic features were the same as those of the intraorbital lacrimal gland.

CONCLUSIONS

The extraorbital lacrimal glands have been reported in some New World monkeys, but to the authors' knowledge, this is the first report in marmosets. Identification and characterization of this gland will be useful for toxicologic studies in marmosets.