Related articles: Stye
Definition
A stye is an acute inflammation, with an infectious etiology, of the eyelid; often, it is caused by pyogenic bacteria (generally, staphylococci). In most cases, the orzaiolo is external and may start following the obstruction of a ciliary follicle and the sebaceous glands attached to it (for example, in the course of blepharitis). The internal scar, more rare, can derive from the infection of a meibomian gland.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- blepharoptosis
- Chills
- Conjunctivitis
- Ocular pain
- Edema
- Temperature
- Fotofobia
- Eyelid swelling
- Tearing
- Nodule
- Pustules
- Ocular secretion
- Squeal
Further indications
Characteristic symptoms of the stye are eyelid pain and swelling and redness of its margin. Lacrimation, photophobia, foreign body sensation and edema of surrounding tissues may be present.
After 1 or 2 days, the external stye persists as a painful nodule located on the edge of the eyelid. Generally, a small pustule appears when an eyelash is inserted. After 2-4 days, pus comes out of the lesion; this causes rapid relief from symptoms and resolution of inflammation.
The internal stye appears as a small relief or a yellowish area at the gland concerned, associated with hyperemia, pain and edema of the conjunctivae. Inflammation is sometimes associated with fever with a shudder.
To speed up healing, the application of warm compresses may be helpful. In some cases, the establishment of systemic antibiotic therapy (eg dicloxacillin or erythromycin), incision and surgical drainage is indicated.
