CHALAZION

 Basic information

description

A chalazion (the plural is chalazia) is a lump (also called a cyst) on the eyelid. It may be so small that it is barely visible or as large as a pea. It results from inflammation of a gland that lubricates the edges of the eyelid. A chalazion is not a stye. Chalazia are more common in adults than children.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

A painless (most often), slow-growing, firm lump in the eyelid. Skin over the lump can be moved loosely. The upper eyelid is the one usually affected.

causes

Blockage of a type of oil-producing gland (meibomian gland) in the eyelid. There are about 100 of these glands located near the eyelashes. A chalazion is usually not due to infection, but may become infected.

risk increases with

• Acne rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Chronic blepharitis (an eyelid and lash condition).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

• There are no specific preventive measures.
• Eyelid hygiene may help prevent problems such as blepharitis (a risk factor). Follow any instructions provided by your health care provider. These steps are one possibility:
  • Wash your eyelid area every day. Dilute baby shampoo with water. Use diluted solution with a washcloth or cotton swab. Gently scrub eyelid area with a back and forth motion with eyes closed. Rinse with warm water.
  • There are also commercial products available to clean eyelids.

expected outcomes

A chalazion often heals by itself in a month or so. If not, it can be treated.

possible complications

• A chalazion may recur or become chronic.
• Complications are rare. They may include eye irritation, infection, or visual changes if a large chalazion presses on the cornea. Very rarely, a recurring chalazion may be a symptom of a type of cancer.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• Self-care is often all that is needed.
• Use warm-water soaks to reduce inflammation and hasten healing. Apply soaks for 10 to 15 minutes, 4 times a day. Gently massage the area several times a day. Do not squeeze or try to pop the chalazion.
• See your health care provider if you are concerned about the problem. An exam will be made of the affected eyelid area. Medical tests are not required.
• Treatment may involve drugs injected into the chalazion, drugs to be applied to the eyelid, or surgery to remove it.
• Surgery to remove the chalazion may be recommended. This is usually done in your health care provider's office. The area will be numbed before the lump is removed.

medications

• Injection of a steroid drug into the chalazion may be recommended to reduce inflammation.
• Antibiotic ointment or drops may be prescribed for infection or following surgical treatment.
• Oral antibiotics may be prescribed for persons with a chronic or recurring chalazion.

activity

No limits.

diet

No special diet.

 notify our office if

• You or a family member has symptoms of a chalazion that is not better after self-care.
• Chalazion recurs or other eye symptoms develop after treatment.

Special Notes: