What is it?
Chalazion is the inflammation of one or more Meibomian glands. These glands are located within the tarsus of the eyelid and secrete the lipid component of the tear film.
Chalazion is accompanied by swelling of the eyelids, which appear reddened. In some cases, inflammation of the conjunctiva is associated. Pain may appear in the acute phase, but is not characteristic of this pathology. The signs and symptoms depend on the extent of the inflammation and the number of meibomian glands involved. The chalazion can vary in size, it can be as small as a millet grain or so large as to induce swelling that causes the eyelid to close or temporary astigmatism.
The causes are not yet fully known, but it is known that it may be due, especially in children, to uncorrected visual defects. Indeed, “squeezing” the eyelids to focus can cause compression of the excretory duct of the Meibomian glands, making it difficult for the glandular secretion to escape, which can result in swelling and inflammation. The role of nutrition is not insignificant. Dietary disorders such as the excessive use of saturated fats can lead to a change in the composition of the fat secretion of the meibomian glands, making it less fluid. Even in this case, it becomes difficult for the glandular secretion to escape.
