Hordeolum Vs Chalazion ...Clinical Summary

A hordeolum is an acute inflammation and/or abscess involving the glandular structures of the eyelid and presents as an acute, tender swelling of the eyelid or eyelid margin. An internal hordeolum involves the meibomian glands, while an external hordeolum (stye) involves the glands of Zeis or Moll at the base of the eye lashes. When bacterial etiology is present, S aureus is the most frequently implicated pathogen.
A chalazion is a firm, nontender lump that arises from obstruction of a meibomian gland. Tenderness, when present, occurs during lid swelling and cyst formation. Both hordeola and chalazia are associated with blepharitis, inflammation of the lid margins associated with plugging of the glandular ducts, and crusting around the lashes. Conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis of the eyelids, rosacea, or rarely eyelash infestation with lice can cause blepharitis and resultant blockage of the meibomian glands.

 Hordeolum. Focal swelling and erythema at the lid margin are seen in this hordeolum.

Chalazion. This chalazion shows nodular focal swelling and erythema from meibomian cyst formation. Pain is present during swelling and cyst formation.