The effectiveness of a Steam Mask for treatment of Paediatric Chalazia
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Is the use of a steam mask an effective treatment for paediatric chalazion in comparison to traditional warm compresses?
IRAS ID
363802
Contact name
Simon Gosling
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Sheffield
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 18 days
Research summary
The aim of the study is to investigate whether the use of a steam mask is an effective alternative to a warm compress when treating chalazion (eyelid lump/cyst) in paediatrics. This condition can result in repeated attendances and escalation of treatments, including antibiotics, steroid eye drops, steroid injection or surgical intervention, both of which require general anaesthetic in paediatrics. First line treatment is usually warm compresses; using a clean face cloth soaked in cooled boiled water and held onto the affected eye for 5-10 minutes, twice daily. Alternatively, uncooked rice can be placed in a sock and warmed in the microwave until hot and then placed on the affected eye for 5-10 minutes, twice daily. Unfortunately, due to poor heat retention or the inconsistencies in achieving therapeutic heat, benefits of such treatments can be insufficient. Alternatively, a heat mask (not available on the NHS) can be used, resolving the poor heat retention and inconsistencies in temperature, but causing discomfort and blurry vision due to compression, which can result in poor compliance in paediatric patients. Heat masks have been shown to only heat the front surface of the eyelids, resulting in poor outcomes for patients with chalazia not located centrally on the eyelid surface. A steam mask will maintain therapeutic heat across the whole eyelid surface; will not use compressive heat, resulting in discomfort; the moisture from the steam will loosen debris around the gland openings; the steam mask allows the patient to blink (promoting oil secretion from the glands), improving comfort and compliance. The study will be conducted within Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, and include patients aged 5-<16 years. Patients diagnosed with chalazia will be assigned to a warm compress or steam mask group, with follow-up appointments at 4 and 8 weeks, to assess the effectiveness of both treatments.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/YH/0003
Date of REC Opinion
19 Feb 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion