Eye
Eye


Chalazion

Definition:
Chalazion is a small mass in the eyelid, caused by a blockage of a tiny oil gland in the eyelid.

Alternative Names:
Meibomian gland lipogranuloma

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

A chalazion develops within the Meibomian glands of the eyelid, which are sebaceous glands that produce the surface of the tear film that lubricates the eyes. The eyelid has approximately 100 of these glands, located near the eyelashes.

The condition is caused by obstruction of one of the ducts which drains one of these glands. A chalazion begins as diffuse swelling and tenderness and later forms a cyst-like localized swelling. Many chalazia disappear without treatment after a few months.




Review Date: 12/22/2002
Reviewed By: Raymond S. Douglas M.D., Ph.D. Department of Ophthalmology, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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