The palpebral fissure is the opening between the upper and lower eyelids. In adults it is about 30 mm wide and 10 mm high when the eyes are open.
| Location | Between the margins of the upper and lower eyelids, from the medial to lateral canthus |
|---|---|
| Parts |
|
| Nerve Supply | Oculomotor nerve (levator palpebrae superioris); Facial nerve (orbicularis oculi); Sympathetic fibres (superior tarsal muscle) |
| Blood Supply | Palpebral arcades |
Controls how much of the eye is exposed, protecting it while allowing vision.
Narrowing of one fissure suggests ptosis from third nerve palsy, Horner syndrome or muscle weakness; widening suggests thyroid eye disease or facial palsy. Its shape and slant are also assessed in genetic syndromes.
Drooping of the upper lid narrowing the fissure.
Abnormally wide fissure, typical of thyroid eye disease.
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