Stye (Hordeolum)

A stye, or hordeolum, is an acute infection of an eyelid gland, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus, leading to a red, painful lump near the eyelash line. Risk factors include poor eyelid hygiene and chronic blepharitis. Symptoms include localised swelling, tenderness, redness, tearing, and sometimes pus formation. Diagnosis is clinical, based on eyelid examination. Management involves warm compresses to promote drainage, maintaining eyelid hygiene, and topical antibiotic ointments if infection is present. Untreated cases may form abscesses or chronic chalazia.