A chalazion (also known as meibomian cyst)is a common condition. It is an inflamed swelling in the eyelid caused by a blocked oily duct.
The meibomian glands are in the tarsal plates of the eyelids and contain over 25 tiny oily secreting ducts per eyelid which open onto the eyelid margin and secrete oil into the tear film, which helps stop tears evaporate. If just one duct gets blocked, oil accumulates and the body reacts by sending in inflammatory cells which cause a red painful inflamed lump.
Natural history and Treatment
A chalazion may eventually settle with antibiotic ointment applied regularly onto the eyelid margin for two weeks and hot compresses used if very inflamed. Most chalazia actually get better without treatment but can take upto 4 months to improve. Typically , if the remaining lump is not better 4-6 months later, it can be curetted out surgically. Sometimes , if the lump is not too big, I will inject an antiinflammatory medication to help your body heal it faster . If you have recurrent chalazia , look up the rosacea page for longer term treatment.
A chalazion may eventually settle with antibiotic ointment applied regularly onto the eyelid margin for two weeks and hot compresses used if very inflamed. Most chalazia actually get better without treatment but can take upto 4 months to improve. Typically , if the remaining lump is not better 4-6 months later, it can be curetted out surgically. Sometimes , if the lump is not too big, I will inject an antiinflammatory medication to help your body heal it faster . If you have recurrent chalazia , look up the rosacea page for longer term treatment.
