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The difference between hordeolum and chalazion

Feb 24, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cui Xin
Introduction
Difference between hordeolum and chalazion: Hordeolum usually occurs in the meibomian glands or hair follicles of the eyelid skin, while chalazion occurs only in the meibomian glands. Hordeolum is caused by pathogenic bacteria invading the eyelid glands, whereas chalazion results from blockage of the meibomian gland opening by secretions. When developing, hordeolum presents with redness, swelling, and pain in the eye; pressing reveals a yellow pus point. In contrast, chalazion manifests as a painless subcutaneous nodule in the eyelid.

Generally speaking, the differences between hordeolum and chalazion lie in their site of occurrence, causes, clinical symptoms, disease course, and treatment methods.

1. Different sites of occurrence: Hordeolum usually occurs in the meibomian glands, hair follicles of the eyelid skin, or sweat glands, while chalazion typically develops only in the meibomian glands and does not commonly occur elsewhere.

2. Different causes: Hordeolum is usually caused by pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus invading the eyelid glands. Chalazion is typically caused by poor eye hygiene leading to blockage of the meibomian gland openings by secretions.

3. Different clinical symptoms: In the early stage, hordeolum generally presents with redness, swelling, and pain in the affected eye area, and a yellow pus point may appear upon pressing. Chalazion, on the other hand, usually appears as a subcutaneous lump on the eyelid, but it is typically painless when pressed.

4. Different disease courses: Hordeolum progresses rapidly, often forming an abscess within several days. If not treated promptly, the abscess may rupture spontaneously, drain pus, and gradually heal, although recurrence is possible. Chalazion has a relatively longer course, lasting for weeks or even months. Smaller chalazia may resolve spontaneously, but larger ones usually require treatment to resolve.

5. Different treatments: Early-stage hordeolum can be managed with warm compresses to promote inflammation absorption, along with prescribed antibiotic eye drops or ointments such as levofloxacin eye drops or erythromycin ointment. In later stages, incision and drainage may be necessary. Small chalazia can also be treated with warm compresses to encourage absorption. However, if the chalazion is large and unresponsive to warm compresses, surgical excision is usually required.

In daily life, it's important to maintain good eye hygiene and develop healthy eye-use habits to prevent the occurrence of these two conditions.

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