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Chalazion Causes and Risks:
A chalazion develops within the structure of the eyelid. It is caused by obstruction of the Meibomian (sebaceous) gland duct. It begins with inflammation and tenderness and later forms a cyst-like swelling . Most chalazia disappear after a few months. After initial healing, a recurrence is possible with a large cyst .
Prevention:
Proper cleansing of the eyelid for those predisposed to chalazia may prevent recurrences.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
Examination of eyelid confirms the symptoms.
A biopsy of the chalazion may be needed to rule out a tumor (rare).
Treatment:
A chalazion can be treated by applying warm compresses for 10 minutes 4 times a day. This may hasten healing.
Chalazia will often disappear without treatment in a month. If one continues to enlarge, it may need to be surgically removed using local anesthesia. Antibiotic eye drops are usually used several days before and after removal of the cyst , but are otherwise of little value in treating a
chalazion.
A persistent chalazion should be biopsied to rule out tumor .
Prognosis:
Chalazia usually heal on their own. The outcome is expected to be excellent with treatment.
Complications:
A large chalazion can cause astigmatism from pressure on the cornea. Affected people may develop a secondary purulent infection within the cyst itself.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Apply home treatment and call your health care provider if there are signs of complications.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if lumps on the eyelid continue to enlarge.
This is an illustration of a cross-section and frontal view of the eye.
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