Which gland is located behind each eye and secretes a porphyrin-containing substance that can cause a red discharge from the eyes and nose?

Which gland is located behind each eye and secretes a porphyrin-containing substance that can cause a red discharge from the eyes and nose?

• A. Harderian Gland
• B. Lacrimal Gland
• C. Sebaceous Gland
• D. Parotid Gland

Answer: (A)

The gland behind the eye that secretes a porphyrin-containing fluid is the Harderian gland. In many animals, this gland produces a porphyrin-rich secretion that can color tears and nasal/eye discharge a red or pink hue, especially around the eyes and nose in rodents and pigs. The lacrimal gland, by comparison, mainly produces the clear tear film for lubrication. Sebaceous glands secrete oily sebum for skin and hair, and the parotid gland is a salivary gland near the jaw. The presence of red staining around the eyes and nose from porphyrin-rich secretions points to the Harderian gland.

The gland behind the eye that secretes a porphyrin-containing fluid is the Harderian gland. In many animals, this gland produces a porphyrin-rich secretion that can color tears and nasal/eye discharge a red or pink hue, especially around the eyes and nose in rodents and pigs. The lacrimal gland, by comparison, mainly produces the clear tear film for lubrication. Sebaceous glands secrete oily sebum for skin and hair, and the parotid gland is a salivary gland near the jaw. The presence of red staining around the eyes and nose from porphyrin-rich secretions points to the Harderian gland.