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The lacrimal caruncle is the small, pink, rounded tissue at the inner corner of the eye near the nose. It is made of modified skin and conjunctival type tissue and can contain tiny hairs, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, and accessory lacrimal tissue. Because of its mixed tissue types, it can develop irritation or a wide range of lesions. Most changes are benign, but persistent growths should be checked.
read more about lacrimal caruncle ...The caruncle sits in the medial canthus beside the tear lake and near the openings of the tear drainage system. Its surface resembles conjunctiva, but deeper layers resemble skin. It can contain hair follicles and oil glands that contribute to local lubrication. Debris can collect in this area, especially with dry eye or blepharitis.
The caruncle helps support the inner corner anatomy and may contribute small amounts of glandular secretions that mix with the tear film. Fine hairs can help trap tiny particles, and blinking helps move tears and debris away from the ocular surface. It also serves as a landmark for clinicians during eye exams. It is not the main source of tears or the main drainage opening.
Because it contains different tissue types, the caruncle can develop several common issues.
New or changing lesions should be evaluated to rule out less common malignancy.
See an eye doctor if the caruncle becomes persistently red, painful, swollen, or produces ongoing discharge. Evaluation may include slit-lamp exam and, if needed, imaging or biopsy for suspicious lesions. Treatment depends on the cause and may include lid hygiene, anti-inflammatory drops, or removal of a lesion. Avoid picking or squeezing the area because it can worsen inflammation or introduce infection.
Yes. The lacrimal caruncle is normal anatomy and often looks like a small pink bump. If it changes rapidly, bleeds, or becomes painful, it should be checked.
It can become inflamed or infected, especially if nearby glands are blocked or if there is significant eyelid inflammation. Pain, pus, or spreading redness should be evaluated promptly.
Yes. Makeup particles, dust, and dried discharge can collect near the tear lake and irritate the caruncle. Gentle cleansing and good eyelid hygiene can help reduce irritation.
No. The tear duct openings are the upper and lower lacrimal puncta on the eyelid margins. The caruncle is a separate tissue structure next to the tear lake.
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Clinical profile, histopathology, and management of caruncular lesions: a systematic review. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11794479/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.
Clinicopathologic study of caruncular lesions. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11573031/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.
Clinical and histopathological profile of primary caruncular lesions. PubMed Central (PMC). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9359247/. Date Accessed February 5, 2026.