Which muscle elevates the upper eyelid?

Which muscle elevates the upper eyelid?

• A. Orbicularis oculi
• B. Levator palpebrae superioris
• C. Glands Moll
• D. Goblet cells

Answer: (B)

The key function being tested is lifting the upper eyelid, which is accomplished primarily by the levator palpebrae superioris. This muscle runs from the orbit’s roof and inserts into the upper eyelid’s tarsal plate and skin; when it contracts, it raises the lid to open the eye. It’s innervated by the oculomotor nerve, so issues with that nerve can lead to ptosis (drooping of the eyelid). The opposing orbicularis oculi encircles and closes the eye, so it does the opposite action. Glands Moll are sweat glands near the eyelashes, not muscles, and Goblet cells in the conjunctiva secrete mucin to help the tear film rather than move the lid. An auxiliary muscle called Müller's (superior tarsal) can assist in elevation via sympathetic input, but the primary elevator is the levator palpebrae superioris.

The key function being tested is lifting the upper eyelid, which is accomplished primarily by the levator palpebrae superioris. This muscle runs from the orbit’s roof and inserts into the upper eyelid’s tarsal plate and skin; when it contracts, it raises the lid to open the eye. It’s innervated by the oculomotor nerve, so issues with that nerve can lead to ptosis (drooping of the eyelid). The opposing orbicularis oculi encircles and closes the eye, so it does the opposite action. Glands Moll are sweat glands near the eyelashes, not muscles, and Goblet cells in the conjunctiva secrete mucin to help the tear film rather than move the lid. An auxiliary muscle called Müller's (superior tarsal) can assist in elevation via sympathetic input, but the primary elevator is the levator palpebrae superioris.