A chalazion is an inflammation in the lid. It is very similar to a stye, but generally occurs deeper in the lid tissue. It
is believed that they occur when the glands on the margin of the lid become blocked. These are very annoying and sometimes
unsightly, but are not serious. Treatment consists of frequent hot compresses and sometimes topical or oral antibiotics. In
80% of the cases, they will resolve within 6-8 weeks. When they persist, then surgery is required. Any lesion which recurs
after removal, or which persists on the surface of the lid, should be examined for the presence of cancer cells. When cancer
cells are found, surgery is always needed.
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