Chalazion Diagnosis and Management

Clinical Features and Causes

Chalazia form when meibomian gland orifices become plugged, leading to pouting or plugging of meibomian orifices, expression of meibomian secretions, and eventual development of a cyst-like structure, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1, 2
Common contributing factors include meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), posterior blepharitis, alterations in the biochemical composition of meibomian gland secretions, and seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea, as reported by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 1, 2, 3

First-line treatment includes daily eyelid hygiene and gentle massage of the eyelids to express the blocked glands, as recommended by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 3
If the condition persists, topical corticosteroid ointments may be applied to reduce inflammation, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology 4

Recurrent chalazia in the same location may indicate sebaceous carcinoma, especially in elderly patients, and require prompt medical evaluation, as warned by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 5, 6
Marked asymmetry, resistance to therapy, atypical features, and unilateral chronic blepharitis unresponsive to therapy may also indicate carcinoma, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology 5, 6

Patients should consult an ophthalmologist if the chalazion persists despite conservative treatment for more than 4 weeks, or if they experience visual changes, moderate to severe pain, or severe/chronic redness, as advised by the American Academy of Ophthalmology 4, 5, 6