Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) Practice Exam 2025

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What is the condition characterized by blocked and inflamed pores in the eyelid, commonly referred to as a "stye"?

  1. Blepharitis

  2. Hordeolum

  3. Chalazion

  4. Conjunctivitis

The correct answer is: Hordeolum

The condition commonly referred to as a "stye" is indeed a hordeolum. A hordeolum occurs when there is an acute infection of the oil glands or hair follicles at the base of the eyelashes, leading to localized swelling, redness, and tenderness. This inflammation creates a lump on the eyelid that can be painful and may resemble a pimple. In contrast, blepharitis refers to chronic inflammation of the eyelid margin, often causing flaky scales and may lead to irritation without any distinct lump formation. A chalazion, while also a lump on the eyelid, is typically a result of blocked oil glands but is not specifically associated with the infection that defines a stye. Conjunctivitis, known as pink eye, affects the conjunctiva rather than the eyelid itself and involves redness and swelling of the eye's outer membrane. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why hordeolum is the correct answer when discussing a stye.