Infectious and Inflammatory Eyelid Disorders

Inflammatory masses of the eyelids are common in children. Chalazia are caused by blockage of the meibomian glands, with secondary irritation due to lipid extravasation. Hordeola are localized infections of eyelid glands. Treatment of both disorders includes warm compresses and management of associated blepharitis. Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial in some patients. Surgical treatment is reserved for large, painful, or chronic lesions.

Figure 17-10 Pyogenic granuloma on tarsal conjunctiva at the site of a chalazion.

(Reproduced with permission from Lueder GT. Pediatric Practice Ophthalmology. New York: McGraw-Hill Professional; 2010:178.)

Pyogenic granuloma (lobular capillary hemangioma)—a pedunculated, fleshy pink hemangiomatous growth—can develop on the tarsal conjunctiva, overlying a chalazion or trauma site (Fig 17-10). Patients with molluscum contagiosum may present with characteristic lesions of the eyelids and secondary follicular conjunctivitis (see Chapter 20).

Excerpted from BCSC 2020-2021 series: Section 10 - Glaucoma. For more information and to purchase the entire series, please visit https://www.aao.org/bcsc.