Which of the following describes a chalazion?

• A. An acute purulent eyelid infection.
• B. A firm, painless nodule on the eyelid.
• C. Painful eyelid swelling with erythema.
• D. Inflammation of the cornea.

Answer: (D)

A chalazion is a chronic, noninfectious blockage of a meibomian gland that leads to a granulomatous inflammation of the eyelid. It presents as a firm, painless nodule on the eyelid, often slowly enlarging and not acutely inflamed. This painless, indurated lump is the hallmark description.

In contrast, an acute purulent eyelid infection (stye) is typically painful, red, tender, and localized at the eyelid margin with possible purulent discharge. Painful eyelid swelling with erythema points toward cellulitis or another inflammatory process rather than a chalazion. Inflammation of the cornea (keratitis) causes eye pain, photophobia, tearing, and visual changes, not a discrete eyelid lump.

Chalazia are usually managed with warm compresses and lid hygiene, and persistent ones may require incision and drainage or intralesional steroids if needed.