A chalazion (or stye) is one of the most common inflammations of the eyelid. Specifically, it is an inflammation of the glands of the eyelid margin, called meibomian glands. In its development, the openings of these glands become blocked. The meibomian glands are similar to the sebaceous glands of the skin and face. They produce the lipid that forms the outer layer of the tear film and helps prevent its evaporation from the ocular surface.
If their secretion is of poor quality or if the glands are underactive, a lipogranulomatous cyst called a chalazion can form.
A chalazion can appear at any age. The eyelid becomes red and swollen, irritated, uncomfortable, and on palpation there is a small nodule roughly the size of a chickpea.
The main symptoms are:
A chalazion can be treated in one of the following ways:
Finally, prompt diagnosis and proper treatment protect against the potential need for surgical intervention.