Chalazion
Larissa V. Furtado, MD
Key Facts
Etiology/Pathogenesis
Chronic obstruction of meibomian or Zeis glands → retained meibomian secretions → chronic granulomatous inflammation
Clinical Issues
Occurs more frequently on the upper eyelid due to the higher density of meibomian glands at this location
Firm, painless, nonulcerating nodule
Benign
Often self-limiting
Microscopic Pathology
Chronic granulomatous inflammation
Lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, giant cells, and granulation tissue
Fat droplets are often seen in the center of granulomas (lipogranuloma)
 In this photograph, a chalazion can be seen on the patient’s upper eyelid  . These cysts commonly occur in this location due to the higher density of meibomian glands on the upper lid. (Courtesy Moran Eye Center.) |
 Chalazion is characterized by chronic granulomatous inflammation including multinucleated giant cells  , plasma cells  , and lymphocytes  . Note a fat globule within a granuloma  . |
TERMINOLOGY
Synonyms
Meibomian gland lipogranuloma
Meibomian cyst
ETIOLOGY/PATHOGENESIS
Etiology
Chronic obstruction of meibomian or Zeis glands → retained meibomian secretions → chronic granulomatous inflammation
Risk Factors
Associated with chronic blepharitis, seborrhea, and acne rosacea
