A chalazion (plural chalazia), also known as a meibomian gland lipogranuloma, is a cyst in the eyelid that is caused by inflammation of a blocked meibomian gland, usually on the upper eyelid. This lump, which may feel like a small smooth pea in the eyelid, is usually just a little further back from the edge of the eyelid. If the lesion is large, vision in the involved eye may be blurred or distorted. Inflammation and pointing may sometimes occur, and the tiny associated abscess may spontaneously drain. In many cases, however, the chalazion becomes chronic , and the patient presents desiring removal. Treatment initially involves application of warm compresses in attempt to cause spontaneous drainage. Antibiotics , both topically and orally, are of little use. If the patient desires, the chalazion can usually be surgically opened and drained as a minor in-office procedure. Some patients, especially those with rosacea, are prone to recurrences.
Causes of Chalazion
The narrow opening through which a meibomian gland secretes its material can become clogged from narrowing of the opening or hardening of the sebaceous liquid near the opening. If this occurs, the gland will have a backup of the material it secretes and it will swell. This leads to thickening of the walls of the gland and leakage of oil into the lid itself, causing inflammation both within the gland and the eyelid. This inflamed enlargement is a chalazion.
Symptoms of Chalazion
A stye usually starts as a red bump that looks like a pimple along the edge of the eyelid.
* As the stye grows, the eyelid becomes swollen and painful, and the eye may water.
* Most styes swell for about 3 days before they break open and drain.
* Styes usually heal in about a week.
Treatment of Chalazion
In the early stages, chalazia may be treated at home with the repeated use of warm compresses for 15 - 20 minutes followed by several minutes of light lid massage. This helps to reduce the swelling and makes the lid more comfortable.
Instructing your child not to squeeze or rub the chalazion
Having your child wash his/her hands frequently
Nevertheless, owing to the risks of infection and severe damage to the eyelid, such procedures should only be performed by a doctor.
Rarely chalazia may reoccur and these will be biopsied to help rule out tumors.
