What is the term for a chronic swelling or blockage of a meibomian gland?

A chalazion is the term used for a chronic swelling or blockage of a meibomian gland. This condition arises when a meibomian gland, which is responsible for secreting oils that help maintain the tear film of the eye, becomes obstructed. When the gland is blocked, the oil that would normally flow out becomes trapped, leading to inflammation and forming a lump on the eyelid.

Chalazia are usually painless and can vary in size, and while they may resolve on their own, some may require treatment if they persist or cause discomfort. Understanding the nature of a chalazion is important, especially in differentiating it from other eyelid conditions.

For instance, a stye is an acute infection of an eyelid gland that typically appears as a painful, red bump, which is quite distinct from the painless swelling of a chalazion. A pterygium, on the other hand, is a growth of tissue on the conjunctiva that can extend onto the cornea, and does not involve or originate from the meibomian glands. Blepharitis refers to inflammation of the eyelid margins, which can be caused by various factors but also does not specifically involve the obstruction of meib