Chalazion

• A chalazion is a granulomatous inflammatory lesion that forms in an obstructed meibomian gland.
• Unlike hordeola, chalazion are non-infectious. Chalazion are often associated with blepharitis and acne rosacea.
• Chalazia present as painless red eyelid cysts in the internal eyelid
• If chalazia are infected, they become internal hordeolum.
• A chalazion and external hordeolum can be easily distinguished as chalazia are not painful or tender to touch. In contrast, an external hordeolum is associated with pain
• Chalazia often resolve spontaneously. Patients should be encouraged to perform warm compression of the eyelid (to loosen meibomian gland content) and eyelid massage (to express meibomian gland content) twice a day.
• A persistent chalazion requires referral to ophthalmology for consideration of incision and curettage.