An eye nodule refers to any lump or bump that forms on or around the eye. These growths can vary in size, appearance, and location, appearing on the eyelid, the surface of the eyeball, or even within the deeper tissues surrounding the eye. While many eye nodules are harmless and resolve on their own, others may indicate underlying conditions that require medical attention. Understanding the potential causes of these nodules is important for recognizing when professional evaluation is needed.
Common Benign Causes
Many eye nodules stem from common, harmless conditions. Styes, or hordeola, are frequent, appearing as small, painful red bumps on the eyelash line. They occur from bacterial infection of an eyelash follicle or oil gland. Styes often resolve in about a week, though swelling and redness can occur.
Chalazia are another common eyelid nodule, often developing from an internal stye. Unlike styes, chalazia are usually not painful but can grow larger, forming a firm lump. They result from a blocked oil gland, causing inflammation and swelling. Large chalazia can cause mild eye irritation or blurred vision.
Other benign bumps appear around the eyes. Milia are tiny, white or yellowish cysts formed by trapped keratin. These harmless bumps can appear anywhere, including under the eyes. Xanthelasma are yellowish, fatty deposits on or around the eyelids, near the inner corner. While benign, these soft patches can sometimes indicate elevated cholesterol levels.
Inflammatory and Infectious Conditions
Inflammation and infections can lead to eye nodules. Blepharitis, a chronic eyelid inflammation, contributes to bumps or recurring styes and chalazia. This condition involves eyelid margin irritation, increasing proneness to blocked glands and nodules. Poor eyelid hygiene, skin conditions, or bacterial overgrowth can cause blepharitis.
Specific viral infections can manifest as eye nodules. Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection causing small, pearl-like bumps on the eyelids or around the eyes. These nodules may lead to chronic conjunctivitis, inflammation of the eye’s outer membrane, due to viral shedding.
Bacterial infections can present as eye nodules. Severe or recurrent infections of the tear drainage system can lead to localized swelling and nodules near the inner corner of the eye. These processes cause the immune system to react, forming a visible lump.
Cysts and Growths
Various cysts and benign growths can appear as eye nodules, distinct from inflammatory or infectious causes. Cysts are fluid-filled sacs developing under the skin. Epidermal inclusion cysts form from trapped skin cells and keratin. Sebaceous cysts arise from blocked sebaceous glands, filled with oily substance. These cysts are slow-growing and vary in size.
Benign growths are non-cancerous cell growths that present as nodules. Papillomas are common, benign skin growths appearing as small, flesh-colored or pigmented lesions with a rough, wart-like surface. They occur on the eyelids or around the eye. Nevi (moles) are another benign growth of pigment-producing cells. While most moles are flat, some can be raised nodules on the eyelid or surrounding skin.
Hemangiomas are collections of blood vessels forming a benign tumor. They appear as red or bluish nodules, particularly in infants, and may grow before regressing. While harmless, their location and size can affect vision or cause cosmetic concerns, requiring medical evaluation.
Systemic and Less Common Causes
Less commonly, eye nodules can manifest as systemic conditions. Autoimmune diseases, where the immune system attacks its tissues, can lead to nodule formation. Rheumatoid nodules, associated with rheumatoid arthritis, are firm, painless lumps that can develop under the skin, around the eyes, or on the sclera. Sarcoidosis, characterized by inflammatory cell collections, can also affect the eyes, leading to nodules in ocular tissues.
Rarely, more serious conditions present as eye nodules. Orbital tumors, growths in the eye socket, can cause a noticeable lump or eyeball displacement. These can be benign or malignant, leading to vision changes or pain depending on size and location. Lymphomas, a lymphatic system cancer, can also involve the eye or surrounding tissues, presenting as a mass or nodule.
Salzmann’s nodular degeneration is another less common cause of corneal nodules. This condition involves creamy white or bluish nodules on the cornea. The exact cause is unknown, but it is associated with chronic eye inflammation or previous eye trauma. These nodules can affect vision if large or centrally located, potentially causing discomfort or blurred vision.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek medical attention for an eye nodule if certain symptoms are present. If the nodule is painful, rapidly growing, or causes vision changes, a prompt evaluation by an eye doctor or general practitioner is needed. Persistent redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye or around the nodule also warrants a visit.
Other concerning signs include multiple nodules, or a nodule that does not resolve within weeks despite home care. If the nodule interferes with blinking, eye movement, or causes discomfort, seek professional advice. A healthcare provider can diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.