Chalazion: Clinical Overview
NEET PG / Board Examination Essentials
1. Definition & Pathogenesis
A chalazion is a chronic, sterile, lipogranulomatous inflammatory lesion of the meibomian glands. It is fundamentally different from a stye (hordeolum).
- Pathophysiology: Obstruction of the meibomian gland duct leading to retention of secretions and granulomatous inflammation.
2. Clinical Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Within the tarsal plate. |
| Pain | Usually painless (unlike internal/external hordeolum). |
| Signs | Firm, non-tender nodule; palpebral conjunctiva shows localized redness/grayish discoloration. |
3. Management
- Conservative: Warm compresses and lid hygiene (first-line).
- Medical: Topical antibiotic-steroid combinations for associated blepharitis.
- Surgical: Incision and curettage if persistent or for cosmetic reasons.
- Injection: Intralesional corticosteroid injection can be an alternative to surgery.
4. NEET PG High-Yield Pearls
- Important Warning: Recurrent chalazion in an elderly patient must be biopsied to rule out Sebaceous Gland Carcinoma.
- Hordeolum vs. Chalazion: Hordeolum is an acute staphylococcal infection (painful, abscess formation); Chalazion is chronic and sterile (granulomatous).