Overview Of Chalazion
A chalazion is a small bump in the eyelid caused by a blockage of a tiny oil gland.
Commonly Associated With
Meibomian Gland Lipogranuloma; Tarsal Cyst
Causes Of Chalazion
This condition is caused by a blocked duct in one of the meibomian glands. These glands are located in the eyelid directly behind the eyelashes. They produce a thin, oily fluid that lubricates the eye.
Symptoms Of Chalazion
This bump often develops following an internal hordeolum (also called a stye). The eyelid most often becomes tender, red, swollen, and warm. Sometimes, the blocked gland causing the stye will not drain even though the redness and swelling go away. The gland will form a firm nodule in the eyelid that is not tender. This is called a chalazion.
Exams & Tests
An exam of the eyelid confirms the diagnosis.
Rarely, skin cancer of the eyelid may look like a chalazion. If this is suspected, you may need a biopsy.
Treatment Of Chalazion
A chalazion will often go away without treatment in a month or so.
The first treatment is to place warm compresses over the eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes at least four times a day. Use lukewarm water (no hotter than you can leave your hand in comfortably). This may soften the hardened oils blocking the duct, and lead to drainage and healing.
DO NOT push or squeeze the bump.
If the chalazion continues to get bigger, it may need to be removed with surgery. This is most often done from the inside of the eyelid to avoid a scar on the skin.
Steroid injection is another treatment option.
