Which gland is involved in chalazion formation?

• A. Lacrimal gland
• B. Meibomian glands
• C. Ciliary gland
• D. Sebaceous gland of eyelid margin

Answer: (B)

Chalazion forms when a Meibomian gland in the eyelid becomes obstructed. These glands are specialized sebaceous glands embedded in the tarsal plate that secrete oil (meibum) to keep the eye from drying. When the duct is blocked, the secretions back up and trigger a lipogranulomatous inflammatory reaction inside the gland, producing a chronic, painless, firm lump on the eyelid. This is why the Meibomian glands are the glands involved.

In contrast, the lacrimal gland is responsible for tear production, so problems there cause tearing issues or dacryoadenitis rather than a chalazion. The glands around the eyelashes (such as Zeis/Moll glands) can lead to styes when infected, which are acute and painful; chalazion is a sterile, noninfectious blockage of the Meibomian glands. Thus, the specific duct obstruction of the Meibomian glands best explains chalazion formation.