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A tarsal cyst is a lump within the eyelid tarsal plate, often related to a blocked meibomian (oil) gland. Many people use the term to describe a chalazion, which is a firm, usually painless eyelid nodule. It forms when trapped oil triggers inflammation and swelling inside the lid. Although it is often benign, recurring lumps in the same spot need evaluation to rule out other conditions.
read more about tarsal cyst ...The most common cause is blockage of a meibomian gland, which prevents normal oil flow along the eyelid margin. Thickened oil and chronic eyelid inflammation can raise blockage risk, especially in blepharitis or rosacea. Frequent eye rubbing and poor lid hygiene can worsen gland dysfunction over time. A stye (hordeolum) can also evolve into a deeper, firmer lump after the acute infection settles. Recurrent lesions, especially in older adults, need careful assessment because uncommon eyelid tumors can mimic a cyst.
A firm eyelid lump is the most common sign, and it often sits away from the lash line. Many people have little pain, though tenderness can occur when inflammation is active or the lump is growing. Swelling can press on the cornea and blur vision temporarily, especially when the lump is large. The eyelid can look red or puffy, and tearing can increase because the lid margin is irritated. A lump that grows quickly, bleeds, or keeps returning should be checked promptly.
An eye doctor diagnoses a tarsal cyst by examining the eyelid and everting the lid to look for an internal gland blockage. The clinician checks for signs of blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, or rosacea because these conditions often drive recurrence. The exam also looks for lash loss, ulceration, or abnormal tissue that suggests a different diagnosis. If a lesion is persistent or recurrent in the same location, biopsy can be considered. Photos or documentation can help track size and response to treatment over time.
Warm compresses and gentle lid massage can help open the blocked gland and reduce the lump over time. Lid hygiene, such as cleaning the lid margin, helps when blepharitis is part of the problem. If the cyst persists or is large, a clinician can perform incision and curettage to remove the trapped material. Steroid injection is another option in selected cases to reduce inflammation and shrink the lesion. Treatment also includes managing recurrence triggers, such as rosacea control and consistent lid care routines.
No. Squeezing can worsen inflammation, increase swelling, and raise infection risk. Warm compresses and lid hygiene are safer first steps. If the lump persists, an eye clinician can treat it in a controlled setting. New pain, spreading redness, or fever should be checked promptly.
Small chalazia can improve over a few weeks with warm compresses done consistently. Larger or long-standing lumps often take longer and sometimes do not resolve without office treatment. Recurrence is more likely when blepharitis or rosacea is active. Follow-up helps decide when to switch from home care to a procedure.
Office removal is considered when the lump lasts for weeks despite compresses, grows large, or affects vision. It is also considered when the lesion keeps recurring in the same spot. The procedure is usually quick and done with local anesthesia. A clinician also checks for signs that suggest biopsy is needed.
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