What is a potential complication of a stye?

A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid typically caused by bacteria. One potential complication that can arise from a stye is preseptal cellulitis, which is an infection of the eyelid and surrounding skin that occurs when bacteria spread from the stye to the tissue around the eye. This condition can present with swelling, redness, and tenderness in the eyelid area and may also lead to systemic symptoms if the infection progresses.

Preseptal cellulitis requires prompt treatment with antibiotics to prevent the infection from leading to more serious conditions, such as orbital cellulitis, which can affect the eye itself and potentially threaten vision. The significance of this complication highlights the importance of treating styes appropriately and monitoring for any signs of worsening infection.

The other options do not align with typical complications associated with styes. Chronic fever is generally unrelated unless there is a systemic infection. Painful pupil reaction may indicate other ocular issues. Conjunctivitis can occur concurrently but is not a direct complication stemming from a stye. Thus, preseptal cellulitis stands out as the most relevant and significant complication related to a stye.