Pterygium

Overview

A pterygium is a raised growth of conjunctival tissue that extends from the white of the eye toward the cornea. It is benign, but it can become irritated, alter corneal shape, or grow toward the visual axis.

Symptoms

Some pterygia cause no symptoms. Others cause redness, dryness, burning, grittiness, a visible fleshy growth, contact lens irritation, or blurred vision from induced astigmatism.

When to see a doctor

Schedule an examination when the growth changes, becomes repeatedly inflamed, affects comfort, interferes with contact lenses, or seems to reduce vision. Rapid change, significant pain, or an unusual-looking lesion should be assessed promptly.

Causes

Long-term ultraviolet light exposure is strongly associated with pterygium. Wind, dust, dryness, and chronic surface irritation may also contribute.

Risk Factors

Risk is higher for people who spend substantial time outdoors, live in sunny or windy climates, work around dust, or do not consistently use UV-blocking sunglasses and protective eyewear.

Complications

A growing pterygium may cause persistent inflammation, cosmetic concern, dry-eye symptoms, corneal distortion, astigmatism, or obstruction of central vision. It can sometimes recur after surgical removal.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis is usually made with a slit-lamp examination and documentation of size and corneal involvement. Lubricants, UV protection, and short-term prescription medication may control irritation. Surgical referral may be appropriate for growth, recurrent inflammation, significant astigmatism, or threatened vision.

Protect the surface of your eyes

We can document a pterygium, monitor change, treat irritation, and explain when surgical consultation may be useful.