Stye

What is it?

Mound-like focal, sterile inflammation of lid lash follicle or its sebaceous gland (external hordeolum)
Can occur deeper in lid as inflammation of Meibomian glands (internal hordeolum)
Blepharitis common underlying condition

How does it appear?

Pain
Mound like enlargement usually near lid margin
Focal tenderness at affected site
May occur anywhere along upper or lower lid
Affected lid may be diffusely swollen
Minimal conjunctival vessel engorgement

What else looks like it?

Dacryocystitis and orbital cellulitis, BUT...
Dacryocystitis always causes swelling in nasal part of lower lid
Orbital Cellulitis causes diffuse lid swelling

What to do?

Reassure patient that it will resolve spontaneously within days
Warm compresses may make it more comfortable, but no treatment hastens its resolution
Treatment of blepharitis will be helpful in preventing recurrences

What will happen?

Usually resolves spontaneously within days without permanent damage
Sometimes leaves behind hard lump called chalazion (Greek for "hail stone")
If it persists and distorts lid to impair vision or create blemish, it must be surgically excised
If it grows or recurs after excision, question diagnosis and consider neoplasm