HORDEOLUM (STYE)

HORDEOLUM (STYE) - is an acute suppurative inflammation of the follicle of
an eyelash or its associated glands of Zeis or Moll, usually by staphylococci.
The initial symptom is tenderness of the lid that may become marked as the
suppuration progresses. The affected lid margin becomes swollen, red and
tense, with the production of a yellow "head" at the base of the affected
eyelash. It may be associated with a blepharitis.

Treatment:
- hot compresses (hot spoon bathing) hasten resolution of the lesion.
- epilate the eyelash to allow drainage.
- local antibiotics.
- test urine for sugar if recurrences occur.
- systemic antibiotics are rarely necessary.