What is a Chalazion?

Chalazion

Introduction

A chalazion is a small lump or swelling that results from blockage of the meibomian or oil glands that line the eyelid margin. They are usually painless. This nodule or bump may develop on the upper eyelid (more frequently) or lower eyelid (less frequently) and resolve spontaneously. Initially, a small, mild tender, and the swollen area is noticed but may become painless in a few days. It is often confused with a stye (hordeolum).

A stye is different from chalazion, as it happens due to bacterial infection of the meibomian glands while a chalazion results from blockage of the gland’s duct. An untreated stye can result in the formation of a chalazion. A stye is painful while chalazion is usually painless.

What Are The Causes And Risk Factors Of A Chalazion?

Meibomian glands are tiny structures present on the upper and lower eyelids which produce oil to keep the eyes moist/lubricated. Inflammation or viruses can affect the glands and may result in chalazia.

Anyone can develop a chalazion or stye but chalazia are more common with the following conditions:

• A prior chalazion increases the chances of getting another one

• Inflammatory conditions

• Viral conjunctivitis

• Seborrheic dermatitis

• Tuberculosis

• Diabetes mellitus

• Smoking

• Deficiency of vitamin A

What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of A Chalazion?

• Usually painless swelling near the edge of the eyelash. A large chalazion may cause the entire eyelid to swell.

• Dry eye due to thickening of the secretions from meibomian glands.

• Irritation or foreign body sensation in the affected eye due to reduced lubrication.

• Tearing 

• A large chalazion may result in visual disturbances.

Diagnosis Of Chalazion

A chalazion is diagnosed clinically based on history and complete eye examination. The ophthalmologist may ask the following questions:

• Onset and duration of symptoms.

• Any associated conditions that may aid in the occurrence of a chalazion.

• They will examine the eyes including eyelids margins, color, and texture over the skin of the lump.

• Examination of meibomian glands. 

Treatment Of Chalazion

A chalazion is typically benign and self-limiting and doesn't require any treatment. However, a chalazion with symptoms should not be ignored.

• General management

• Chalazia typically heal spontaneously however the following management options can speed recovery. 

• Warm compresses 3-5 times a day, 15 minutes at a time.

• Gentle massage with baby shampoo over the lids can be beneficial.

• Avoid squeezing or popping the lump/chalazion.

• Medical treatment

• If a chalazion does not go away on its own in 2-4 weeks or with the conservative treatment options discussed above, then medical management is indicated.

• Oral antibiotics are not used in routine cases but can be given in the case of infected chalazia. 

• Topical antibiotic/steroid combination drops may be prescribed.

• An ophthalmologist may give a steroid injection into the lesion to reduce the swelling and inflammation.

• Surgical treatment

• A large chalazion hampering vision and not responding to medical treatment should be drained surgically.

• The surgical drainage is usually performed in the office under local anesthesia that takes a few minutes.

• A recurrent chalazion should be biopsied to rule out the underlying cause.

Prevention

• Avoid touching your eyes or face with dirty hands and wash them properly before touching your eyes.

• Improperly handled contact lenses may result in ocular infections. Therefore, follow the recommended guidelines before wearing and removing them.

• Wash your face before going to bed. Johnson’s baby shampoo is a safe and effective cleanser for the eyelids.

• Avoid sharing personal products.

Contact your ophthalmologist at ESA if you have a new, worsening or recurrent chalazion. 

References 

1. NCBI - WWW Error Blocked Diagnostic. (n.d.). NCBI. Retrieved February 10, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499889/

2. What Are Styes and Chalazia? (2021, November 18). American Academy of Ophthalmology. Retrieved February 10, 2022, from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-are-chalazia-styes

3. Chalazion. (n.d.). AOA. Retrieved February 10, 2022, from https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/chalazion?sso=y

Author

Eye Surgeons Associates Drs. Zuhair H. Peracha, Manal H. Peracha-Riyaz, Eric Zuckerman, Matthew Pieters, and Leila Siblani are dedicated to excellence in eye care and service. We utilize the latest treatment methods and procedures, including routine eye care, cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, retinal disease management, diabetic eye treatment, and eyelid surgery.