Small hump in the eye is caused by blockage of a tiny oil gland is

Appeared in: UPPSC 2022

Explanation

A chalazion is a chronic, non-infectious, granulomatous inflammation of a meibomian gland, which is a type of oil-producing gland in the eyelid.
It occurs due to obstruction of the gland's duct, leading to the accumulation of oily secretions.
This accumulation forms a firm, slow-growing, and typically painless nodule or 'hump' within the eyelid, directly matching the description in the question.

Option A: Keratitis is the inflammation of the cornea (the transparent outer layer of the eye), not a blocked gland in the eyelid.
Option B: Uveitis is inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye, which includes the iris, ciliary body, and choroid.
Option D: Entropion is a structural condition where the eyelid margin turns inward, causing the eyelashes to irritate the eyeball.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Inflammatory Disorders of the Eyelid as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses play a key role in patient education for chalazion, primarily teaching the application of warm compresses and gentle massage to promote drainage and resolution.
It is crucial to differentiate a chalazion (chronic, non-tender) from a hordeolum/stye (acute, painful infection), as a stye may require topical antibiotics.
Patients should be advised to seek medical evaluation if the lump grows very large, affects vision, or does not resolve with conservative treatment, as incision and drainage may be necessary.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of ophthalmologic terminology.
First, break down the question stem to identify the key defining features: 'small hump' and 'blockage of a tiny oil gland'.
Next, systematically review each option and match it to its definition.
Recall that Keratitis involves the cornea and Uveitis involves the uvea, eliminating them as they are not eyelid gland issues.
Differentiate between Chalazion (a blocked gland) and Entropion (an inward-turning eyelid).
The description 'blockage of a tiny oil gland' is the classic definition of a chalazion, making it the correct choice.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q0ER-94DI2NzlnaGJLWyUZ

E6 Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics(2024) — Volume 2 pp. 1744-1746, 1748-1750

E6 Pathology-Textbook of PATHOLOGYHarsh Mohan Part 2 (215-514) p. 80-82

Practise the full UPPSC 2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.