A chalazion is a firm round lump in the upper or lower eyelid caused by a chronic inflammation/blockage of the meibomian gland. It can sometimes be mistaken for a stye. Unless acutely infected, it is harmless and nearly all resolve if given enough time.
Symptoms
- Eyelid swelling or lump
- Eyelid tenderness
- If inflamed, eye can be red, watering and sore
- Heaviness of the eyelid
Signs
- Tender or non-tender round swelling, can be red, on or within the eyelid +/- mild conjunctivitis
Eye examination
- Examine lids and conjunctiva with a white light
- Watch out for spreading lid cellulitis
- The presence of a chalazion is confirmed
Treatment
- Give patient chalazion information leaflet
- Show patient how to apply a warm compress which can be used to increase drainage of the affected gland
- Show the patient how to gently massage after warm compress to help to express the contents of the cyst
- If acutely inflamed, prescribe chloramphenicol ointment tds 1-2 weeks
- Chalazia will often disappear without further treatment within a few months and virtually all will re-absorb within two years
- If conservative therapy fails, chalazia can be treated by surgical incision into the tarsal gland followed by curettage of the retained secretions and inflammatory material under local anaesthetic