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Chalazion
A chalazion, also known as a Meibomian gland lipogranuloma, is
a cyst in the eyelid that is caused by inflammation of the meibomian gland,
usually on the upper eyelid. Chalazions differ from hordeolums in that
they are usually painless apart from the tenderness caused when they swell
up. A chalazion may eventually disappear on its own after a few months,
though more often than not, some treatment is necessary.
Signs
and symptoms
• Painful swelling
on the eyelid
• Eyelid tenderness
• Sensitivity to light
• Increased tearing
Treatment
The primary
treatment is application of warm compresses for 10 - 20 minutes at least
4 times a day. This may soften the hardened oils blocking the duct and
promote drainage and healing.
Topical antibiotic
eye drops or ointment (eg chloramphenicol or fusidic acid) are sometimes
used for the initial acute infection, but are otherwise of little value
in treating a chalazion. Chalazia will often disappear without further
treatment within a month or so.
If they continue
to enlarge or fail to settle within a few months, they may be surgically
removed using local anesthesia. This is usually done from underneath the
eyelid to avoid a scar on the skin. Rarely chalazia may reoccur and these
will be biopsied to help rule out tumors.
Complications
A large chalazion
can cause astigmatism due to pressure on the cornea. This will resolve
with resolution of the chalazion.
Prevention
Proper cleansing
of the eyelid may prevent recurrences in people prone to chalazia. Cleaning
the eyelash area with diluted baby shampoo will help reduce clogging of
the ducts.
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