Hordeolum

Definition:
A common staphyloccal infection of the lid glands, essentially an abscess, with pus formation.


Classification:
Two types

1. Internal hordeolum - relatively large, affecting the meibomian glands. May point towards the skin or towards the conjunctivae.

2. External hordeolum - also known as a stye. It is smaller and more superficial. It is an infection of the glands of Moll or Zeiss and it always points toward the skin side of the lid margin.

Clinical features:
The patient complains of redness, swelling, and pain in the eyelid and swelling which is:

1. At the base of an eyelash (external hordeolum)
2. Deep within the lid (internal hordeolum)

Treatment:

Both types of hordeola are treated with warm compresses for 10-15 minutes 3-4 times a day. If the condition does not improve within 48 hours, incision and drainage of the pus is indicated. Antibacterial ophthalmic ointment is also helpful.