Mapping The Current Evidence On Intense Pulsed Light In The Management Of Chalazion: A Scoping Review

Background:

Chalazion is a common lipogranulomatous inflammation of the eyelid, usually caused by plugged meibomian gland ducts. Although many cases resolve with conservative therapy, recurrent or refractory chalazia often require procedural intervention such as incision and curettage. Recently, Intense pulsed light ( IPL) has emerged as a treatment option for chalazion. However, the scope of existing evidence remains unclear.

Purpose :

To map and summarize the current evidence on the efficacy and safety of IPL in the management of chalazion.

A scoping review 

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Pubmed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to January 2026. Studies evaluating IPL as a treatment for chalazion were included. Data were extracted on study design, patient characteristics, IPL protocols, clinical outcomes, and adverse events.

Eighty-seven records were identified, with 49 duplicates removed. Six studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies were retrospective case series involving patients with recurrent or refractory chalazion. Reported outcomes demonstrated clinical improvement, reduction in lesion size, and decreased recurrence rate. IPL was generally tolerated with no adverse effects reported.

Emerging evidence suggests that IPL may be a promising adjuvant treatment option, particularly for recurrent and refractory chalazion. However, the current literature is limited by small sample sizes and predominantly retrospective designs. Prospective,  controlled  studies are needed to establish standardized treatment protocols and confirm efficacy and safety.