A hordeolum is an acute infection affecting the meibomian, Zeiss, or Moll glands of the eyelid. Stasis of the gland secretions predisposes to bacterial infection. Staphylococcus Staphylococcus Staphylococcus is a medically important genera of Gram-positive, aerobic cocci. These bacteria form clusters resembling grapes on culture plates. Staphylococci are ubiquitous for humans, and many strains compose the normal skin flora. Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen. The condition presents as a painful, localized, erythematous mass Mass Three-dimensional lesion that occupies a space within the breast Imaging of the Breast in the anterior (external hordeolum) or posterior (internal hordeolum) lamella of the eyelid. A hordeolum usually resolves spontaneously and can be managed with warm compresses Warm Compresses Chalazion, massage, and lid hygiene. In certain cases of significant swelling Swelling Inflammation, topical antibiotics with steroids Steroids A group of polycyclic compounds closely related biochemically to terpenes. They include cholesterol, numerous hormones, precursors of certain vitamins, bile acids, alcohols (sterols), and certain natural drugs and poisons. Steroids have a common nucleus, a fused, reduced 17-carbon atom ring system, cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene. Most steroids also have two methyl groups and an aliphatic side-chain attached to the nucleus. Benign Liver Tumors may be needed. If there is no resolution, incision, and drainage are performed.
Last updated: 28 Jan, 2022
Sagittal Sagittal Computed Tomography (CT) cut of the upper eyelid
Image by Lecturio.Name | Type | Opening location | Infection |
---|---|---|---|
Gland of Zeis | Sebaceous gland | Directly into the eyelash follicle | External hordeolum |
Gland of Moll Gland of Moll Blepharitis | Modified sweat glands Sweat glands Sweat-producing structures that are embedded in the dermis. Each gland consists of a single tube, a coiled body, and a superficial duct. Soft Tissue Abscess | Between adjacent lashes | External hordeolum |
Meibomian gland Meibomian Gland Chalazion | Modified sebaceous gland | Behind eyelashes | Internal hordeolum |
Man suffering from external hordeolum of the lower lid.
Image: “Stye” by Palosirkka. License: CC0 1.0Upper eyelid stye, illustrating a localized erythematous and swollen area.
Image: “Stye” by Andre Riemann. License: Public DomainPhotograph showing orbital cellulitis Cellulitis Cellulitis is a common infection caused by bacteria that affects the dermis and subcutaneous tissue of the skin. It is frequently caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The skin infection presents as an erythematous and edematous area with warmth and tenderness. Cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the periocular tissues.
Image: “Orbital cellulitis Cellulitis Cellulitis is a common infection caused by bacteria that affects the dermis and subcutaneous tissue of the skin. It is frequently caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The skin infection presents as an erythematous and edematous area with warmth and tenderness. Cellulitis” by Jonathan Trobe. License: CC BY 3.0Most hordeola resolve spontaneously, lasting up to 1–2 weeks.