Eyelid problems

Eyelid problems commonly encountered include:

• blepharitis: inflammation of the eyelid margins typically leading to a red eye
• stye: infection of the glands of the eyelids
• chalazion (Meibomian cyst)
• entropion: in-turning of the eyelids
• ectropion: out-turning of the eyelids

Case: A 30-year-old man presented with recurrent, painful vesicles on his left lower eyelid. Clustered, umbilicated erosions and ulcers were found on an erythematous base on the medial aspect of the lower eyelid margin.

Stye

Different types of stye are recognised:

• external (hordeolum externum): infection (usually staphylococcal) of the glands of Zeis (sebum producing) or glands of Moll (sweat glands).
• internal (hordeolum internum): infection of the Meibomian glands. May leave a residual chalazion (Meibomian cyst)
• management includes hot compresses and analgesia. CKS only recommend topical antibiotics if there is an associated conjunctivitis

A chalazion (Meibomian cyst)

is a retention cyst of the Meibomian gland. It presents as a firm painless lump in the eyelid. The majority of cases resolve spontaneously but some require surgical drainage