Tarsus (eyelids) is a groove in the inner surface of each eyelid. Along the inner margin of the tarsus are modified sebaceous glands known as tarsal glands (or meibomian glands), aligned vertically within the tarsi: 30 to 40 glands in the upper lid, and 20 to 30 in the lower lid, which secrete a lipid-rich product which helps keep the lacrimal secretions or tears from evaporating too quickly, thus keeping the eye moist. Tarsus (eyelids) The tarsi (tarsal plates) are two comparatively thick, elongated plates of dense connective tissue, about in length; one is found in each eyelid, and contributes to its
Chalazion blepharitis), given other options, less intrusive treatment is always preferable. Similarly, chalazia may recur once the eye is predisposed and surgical intervention each time is not possible. So surgery should be considered only as a last resort, performed on as few as 5% of all chalazia patients. Blocked meibomian glands may also be treatable with hot towels, which soften the oils on the gland. A chalazion or meibomian cyst can sometimes be mistaken for a stye. Topical antibiotic eye drops or ointment (e.g., chloramphenicol or fusidic acid) are sometimes used for the initial acute infection, but are otherwise of little