What term refers to a nodule or cyst on the upper eyelid caused by obstruction in a sebaceous gland?

What term refers to a nodule or cyst on the upper eyelid caused by obstruction in a sebaceous gland?

• A. Chalazion
• B. Ectopion
• C. Entropion
• D. Periorbital Edema

Answer: (A)

A chalazion is a lump on the eyelid caused by blockage of a meibomian (sebaceous) gland. When the gland’s duct becomes obstructed, secretions build up and incite a localized granulomatous reaction, forming a firm, usually painless nodule on the eyelid—often the upper lid. This is distinct from a stye, which is a painful, acute infection of an eyelid gland, and from eyelid malpositions like entropion (inward turning) or ectropion (outward turning). Periorbital edema, by contrast, is generalized swelling around the eye rather than a discrete lump.

A chalazion is a lump on the eyelid caused by blockage of a meibomian (sebaceous) gland. When the gland’s duct becomes obstructed, secretions build up and incite a localized granulomatous reaction, forming a firm, usually painless nodule on the eyelid—often the upper lid. This is distinct from a stye, which is a painful, acute infection of an eyelid gland, and from eyelid malpositions like entropion (inward turning) or ectropion (outward turning). Periorbital edema, by contrast, is generalized swelling around the eye rather than a discrete lump.