chalazia

Chalazion is a noninfectious eyelid lesion resulting from blockage of a meibomian gland, leading to retention of secretions and a granulomatous inflammation. It is typically a slow-growing, painless lump within the eyelid, most often the upper lid. It may cause mild irritation or blurred vision if large or pressing on the cornea. It is distinct from a hordeolum (stye), which is an acute infection of eyelid glands and usually tender.

Diagnosis is usually clinical. A stromal nodule with a firm, rubbery consistency and overlying normal skin is typical; fever is unusual. In uncertain cases, imaging or biopsy may be warranted to exclude malignancy.

Conservative management is common and may include warm compresses several times daily, gentle lid massage to express the blockage, and lid hygiene to control blepharitis. Most chalazia resolve without invasive treatment within several weeks to months. If persistent beyond 1-3 months, enlarging, or causing cosmetic or visual issues, options include intralesional corticosteroid injection or incision and drainage by an ophthalmologist; antibiotics are not routinely required unless there is concurrent infection.

Chalazia have a tendency to recur, particularly in individuals with chronic blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction. Recurrence may require management of underlying eyelid inflammation and patient education on lid hygiene.