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What causes caruncle in the eyes?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have something white in the inner corner of my eye. It appeared about two weeks ago, but it is not itchy, with no swelling and no pus coming out of it. My eyes do get tired and dry quite often.

Can you tell me what it could be? I am going to attach a photo, too.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Zargham Ali Malik

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zargham Ali Malik is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Ophthalmology (Eye Care). He is an expert in tackling any complicated medical cases and can provide an expert opinion.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through the attached image (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity).

It seems to be a small mass in the caruncle of the eye. If it is irritating, it can be removed. Do hot compresses and use Fucithalmic (antibiotic) eye gel. If it is still there, then better to be excised.

I hope it helps.

Feel free to reach out if you have any doubts.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your answer.

Why did it appear there, and does it have a name?

Answered by Dr. Muhammad Zargham Ali Malik

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zargham Ali Malik is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Ophthalmology (Eye Care). He is an expert in tackling any complicated medical cases and can provide an expert opinion.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Based on your description, the nature of the lesion depends partly on whether it is painful or not. If the swelling in the inner corner of the eye is painful or tender, it may be related to inflammation or infection of the caruncle (the small pink structure at the inner corner of the eye). If it is painless, it is more likely to be a small cystic lesion in that area.

Common contributing factors include eye dryness, irritation, or a mild local infection. However, a direct examination by an ophthalmologist is necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of a small mass near the caruncle.

The most likely possibilities include:

  • A benign cystic lesion.

  • Mild inflammation or infection of the caruncle.

  • Localized irritation related to dry eyes.

I recommend applying warm compresses to the affected area several times a day. Your ophthalmologist may also advise an antibiotic eye gel such as Fucithalmic if an infection is suspected.

To help prevent further irritation:

  • Use lubricating eye drops if you frequently experience dry eyes.

  • Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from wind, dust, and sunlight.

  • Avoid rubbing or touching the affected area.

If the swelling increases in size, becomes painful, causes redness, discharge, or affects your vision, please arrange an in-person eye examination promptly.

I hope this information helps.

Thank you.

Answered by
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At November 22, 2022
Reviewed At June 2, 2026

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zargham Ali Malik is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Ophthalmology (Eye Care). He is an expert in tackling any complicated medical cases and can provide an expert opinion.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Muhammad Zargham Ali Malik

Ophthalmology (Eye Care)

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Muhammad Zargham Ali Malik is a highly skilled and established physician in the field of Ophthalmology (Eye Care). He is an expert in tackling any complicated medical cases and can provide an expert opinion.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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