HEENT 16: Chalazion

Question 1

What is a chalazion?

Answer 1

sterile lesion

• points inward, leading to conjunctival irritation
• due to meibomian gland blockage
• can occur without known cause

Question 2

What are the contributing factors?

Answer 2

• underlying medical conditions – blepharitis, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis
• other – cigarette smoking

Question 3

What are the signs and symptoms?

Answer 3

• single painless lesion
• gradual onset (days to weeks)
• unilateral, localized swelling
• conjunctival redness

Question 4

What is the general treatment?

Answer 4

non-pharm treatment to alleviate symptoms, reduce exacerbations, and help prevent recurrence

• several days to 1 week (depending on size)

Question 5

When is referral required?

Answer 5

• lesions persist
• eye pain
• change in vision

Question 6

Are antibiotics indicated for treatment?

Answer 6

NOT indicated alone because chalazion is sterile (not due to bacterial infection)

Question 7

What are the other treatment options?

Answer 7

• surgical incision to drain lesion – reserved for larger lesions
• topical antibiotics (erythromycin 0.5% ointment) – only for post-surgical incision