Even though chalazion is a common eyelid lesion, there is lack of consensus on a treatment algorithm. Conservative management includes lid hygiene and warm compresses and, in some cases, steroid ointments for two to three weeks. More invasive options for treatment include intralesional injection of 0.2–0.4mL of 40mg/mL triamcinolone acetonide (TCA) which may lead to resolution. Finally, incision and curettage (I&C) is reported to have a higher success rate than the more conservative options. The authors sought to review clinical studies on the subject to highlight the current efficacy of the various treatment options. The following results were outlined: (1) Hot compresses alone versus hot compresses with antibiotic with / without steroid. There was no difference between the three groups, with 18% of patients experiencing complete resolution. (2) Intralesional TCA injection versus I&C. In both groups, resolution occurred in around 90% of case, and the resolution time was shorter with the latter. The size of chalazia may define a treatment approach as surgery was more effective compared with injection in larger lesions. (3) Intraoperative TCA injection helped in preventing recurrence. The authors concluded that randomised clinical trials would be required to increase certainty on effectiveness of treatment options.
Review of chalazion treatment
Reviewed by Kurt Spiteri Cornish
Chalazion treatment: a concise review of clinical trials.
CONTRIBUTOR
Kurt Spiteri Cornish
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, London, UK.
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