Introduction
By far the most common lesion of the eyelid is a chalazion, a benign lesion which often self resolves. Despite this, it is important that a qualified doctor with the correct equipment examines the lump to make a proper diagnosis because:
Within the tough cartilage like structure of the back half of the eyelid (known as the tarsal plate) are numerous oil producing glands (meibomian glands) whose job it is to secrete a fine oily secretion on to the surface of the eye to help lubricate it.
Sometimes the duct of a gland can become blocked leading to retention of the oil secretion within the gland. The gland enlarges, as the oil starts to collect and becomes tender as it becomes inflamed.
The patient complains of a red, tender lump of the eyelid. A chalazion, (pronounced KA-LAY-ZEE-ON) also known as meibomian cyst, internal hordeolum represents an inflammatory reaction against the retained oil secretion, (mebum) of the meibomian glands. Eventually the inflammation settles, often resulting in a painless hard lump.
Some patients have an underlying predisposition to chalazion formation due to them also having meibomian gland dysfunction and or blepharitis. The ongoing treatment of MGD is important in reducing the chances of further recurrence of chalazia. (Plural of Chalazion. Pronounced KA-LAY-ZEE-AH)
The patient may notice blurring of vision if the lump is particularly large causing distortion in the normal shape of the cornea.
The vast majority of chalazia will settle down by themselves but hot compresses, using a towel soaked in hot water or proprietary microwaveable beanbags (e.g. MGDRx Bag from the Eyebag Company, Optase bag from Scope Ophthalmics or the Meibopatch Bag from Visufarma) often aids self resolution.
Although most chalazia will self resolve in due course, unfortunately a small proportion will remain and can look cosmetically poor. Persistent chalazia can be drained with a simple operation where a small cut is made into the enlarged meibomian gland through the back surface of the eyelid, thus leaving no scar. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and all the patient usually feels is the small scratch from the injection. This operation does not unblock the duct orifice of the meibomian gland which caused the chalazion in the first place nor does it cure the patient of any underlying meibomian gland dysfunction; but it does lead to rapid shrinkage of the chalazion.
Unfortunately, rightly or wrongly, funding for the drainage of chalazia has been rationed by the NHS. Mr Cheung's personal opinion is that, although it is understandable that various NHS authorities have rationed the treatment of these lesions, it is important all eyelid lumps are seen by an ophthalmologist and/ or oculoplastic surgeon at least to clarify the diagnosis as every year a small proportion of dangerous eyelid lesions such as BCCs, sebaceous gland carcinomas, are misdiagnosed by the GPs and only referred to ophthalmology services late thus delaying correct treatment.
Stye of the upper eyelid. This is due to an acute infection affecting the roots of the eyelashes.
The skin of the eyelid contains numerous sweat secreting glands and oil secreting glands. Blockage of the openings of these glands leads to the retention of their secretion and the formation of cysts.