Which statement correctly differentiates chalazion from hordeolum?

• A. Chalazion is a blocked gland; Hordeolum is an infection of the gland.
• B. Chalazion is caused by viral infection; Hordeolum by allergy.
• C. Chalazion occurs only in children; Hordeolum only in adults.
• D. Hordeolum is a blocked gland; Chalazion is an infection.

Answer: (A)

The distinction hinges on what actually causes the eyelid lesion: blockage of a gland versus infection of a gland, and how that presents.

A chalazion results from blockage of a Meibomian gland, leading to a sterile lipogranulomatous inflammation. It typically appears as a firm, painless lump on the eyelid and is usually not red or acutely inflamed. It’s a chronic process, not an acute infection.

A hordeolum (stye) is an acute infection of the eyelid glands (external glands of Zeis or Moll, or internal Meibomian glands). It presents as a painful, red, tender swelling on the eyelid, often with warmth and possible purulent discharge.

Therefore, the correct statement—that chalazion is a blocked gland and hordeolum is an infection—best differentiates the two. The other options misstate the causes (virus or allergy), age patterns, or invert the relationship between blockage and infection.