Stye

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Jesus Rosario Hernandez, M.D. [2]; Faizan Sheraz, M.D. [3]

Synonyms and keywords: Hordeolum

Overview

A stye (also known as a hordeolum) is a painful infection of the sebaceous glands at the base of the eyelashes on, inside, or under the eyelid.. The infection may be internal or external. In many cases, a hordeolum may resolve without treatment; however, the inflammation may spread to other ocular glands or recur.

Causes

A stye is usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus. They can be triggered by stress, poor nutrition or lack of sleep. A stye may be secondary to blepharitis.

Differential Diagnosis

A stye must be differentiated from:

• Xanthelasma
• Papilloma
• Cyst
• Pyogenic Granuloma
• Amyloid Deposition

Risk Factors

Common risk factors in the development of hordeola are:

• Dry eyes
• Chronic blepharitis

Epidemiology & Demographics

Styes are particularly common in infants, though they may occur at any age.

Diagnosis

History and Symptoms

The first signs are tenderness and redness in the affected area. Symptoms of a stye include:

• Swelling
• Watering of the eye
• Sensitivity to light
• Discomfort during blinking

Physical examination

Eyes

• A localized and tender area with a pointing eruption may be seen in the affected area.
• A yellowish bump may be noted.

Lymph Nodes

• Adjacent lymph nodes may be palpable.

Gallery

Head

• 

  Hordeolum. With permission from Dermatology Atlas.

• 

  Hordeolum. With permission from Dermatology Atlas.

Treatment

Medical Therapy

Most cases of hordeolum resolve without treatment. Supportive therapy for hordeolum consists of warm compresses. Antimicrobial ophthalmic ointments may be administered.

• Hordeolum

• 1. External hordeolum, for a single lesion

• Preferred regimen: Supportive therapy is sufficient. Application of warm compresses 4-6 times/day.
• Note: Antibiotic therapy is questionable value for a single lesion and often not indicated.

• 2. External hordeolum, for multiple/recurrent lesions

• Preferred regimen (1): Bacitracin ophthalmic q8-24h
• Preferred regimen (2): Erythromycin topical q4-6h

• 3. Internal hordeolum

• Preferred regimen: Warm compresses 4-6 times/day in conjugation with systemic antistaphylococcal antibiotics
• Note: If the lesion do not respond to this regimen, incision and drainage are indicated.

References