Eyelid Mass

What is it? 
​Eyelid masses are not uncommon and usually arise from the meibomian glands (oil producing glands of the eyelids). The majority of eyelid masses are benign and are called adenomas. Malignant tumors can also grow around the eyes. It is recommended that a questionable mass be excised and submitted for histopathology.
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A hordeolum, also called a stye, is an external pustular infection of the oil gland of an eyelash follicle. Styes manifest as single or multiple raised abscesses along the outside edge of an eyelid margin. These are distinctly different from chalazions which appear on the inner surface of an eyelid margin. A chalazion is an infection of a meibomian gland that can create a single or multiple nodular swellings on the internal surface of the eyelid. With either condition, treatment includes the use of hot compresses, topical antibiotic/steroid therapy, oral antibiotics and possible lancing of the pustules
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Symptoms

Many pets are asymptomatic. When seen, symptoms can include squinting, excessive tearing and development of corneal ulcers. 

Treatment

Removal of lid adenomas can involve cryosurgey (freezing), laser ablation or even surgical excision, depending on size and location of the mass. Many can be removed with local anesthesia only, although some do require sedation or general anesthesia.