Is a steam mask better than warm compresses for kids with a chalazion?
Official title: Is the Use of a Steam Mask an Effective Treatment for Paediatric Chalazion in Comparison to Traditional Warm Compresses?
Run by University of Sheffield · NCT07721779 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A steam mask is tested to see if it helps pediatric chalazia more than traditional warm compresses.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 5 Years to 16 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 28 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Sheffield Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sheffield) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 10, 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 15, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | July 23, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07721779 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are children aged 5 to under 16 with a diagnosed chalazion who have access to a microwave and have no recent invasive treatment or conflicting ocular conditions.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients whose chalazion does not respond to steam masks or who experience safety concerns may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study compares a steam mask to standard warm compresses for treating chalazion in children aged 5 to under 16. Participants will be assigned to one of the two treatment methods, with care taken to monitor safety and response. Outcomes will focus on resolution rate, time to improvement, and any adverse effects. The trial is conducted at University Hospitals of Sheffield Trust and is led by the University of Sheffield. It targets a common eyelid condition with benign, self-limiting characteristics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, children may achieve faster relief and resolution of chalazion symptoms with a simple steam-based treatment.
How similar studies have gone: This approach is novel for pediatric chalazion; prior evidence on steam therapy for this condition is limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed chalazion (isolated or multiple). * Aged between 5 - \<16 years (reading age for participant information leaflets). * A minimum head circumference of 50cm. * Access to a microwave with a rotating plate. Exclusion Criteria: * Current or previous treatment including: triamcinolone acetonide injection and, incision and curettage. * Current treatment including: oral or topical antibiotics and/or topical steroids. * Other ocular co-morbidities (excluding blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, and dry eye disease). * Dermatological diagnoses that contraindicate the use of heat on the face. * Suspicious lesion with abnormal surrounding tissue that requires further investigation.
Where it's running
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University hospitals of Sheffield Trust
Sheffield, United Kingdom Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Viral Sheth, Phd — University of Sheffield
- Study coordinator: Simon Gosling, Mmedsci ACP
- Email: sgosling1@sheffield.ac.uk
- Phone: 44 7938631784
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.