Styes

Alternative names:

hordeolum; infection of eyelash follicle

Definition:

An infection near the root (follicle) of an eyelash.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Styes are an infection of the eyelash follicle caused by bacteria. A sore similar to a pimple or a boil forms at the edge of the eyelid. More than 1 stye can occur at one time because the bacteria may spread to another follicle. Styes usually develop within a day or 2 and eventually fill with pus then drain spontaneously. A lump that forms on the eyelid may be a stye or a chalazion.