Pterygium

What is Pterygium ?

A Pterygium is fleshy tissue that grows over the cornea ( the clear front part of the eye ). It may remain small or may grow large enough to interfere with vision. Pterygia are not related to cataracts. A pterygium most commonly occurs on the inner corner of the eye, but can appear on the outer corner as well.

What Causes Pterygium ?

Pterygium occur more often in people who spend a great deal of time oudoors, especially in sunny climates. Long-term exposure to sunlight, especially ultraviolet ( UV ) rays, and chronic eye irritation from dry, dusty conditions seem to play an important causal role. Dry eye may also contribute to pterygium also.

How is Pterygium Treated ?

When a pterygium becomes red and irritated, eye drops or ointments may be used to help reduce the inflammation. If the pterygium is large enough to threaten sight, causes pain or is unsightly, it can be removed surgically.

Despite proper surgical removal, the pterygium may return in 15% of people, especially in the young. Surface medications are sometimes used to help prevent recurrences.

Protecting the eyes from excessive ultraviolet light with proper sunglasses and avoiding dry, dusty conditions and use of artificial tears may also help.

What is Pinguecula ?

A pinguecula is a yellowish patch or bump on the white of the eye, most often on the side closest to the nose. It is not a tumor, but an alteration of normal tissue resulting in a deposit of protein and fat. Unlike a pterygium, a pinguecula does not actually grow onto the cornea. A pinguecula may also be a response to chronic eye irritation or sunlight.

How is Pinguecula Treated ?

No treatment is necessary unless it is inflamed. A pinguecula does not grow onto the cornea or threaten sight. If particularly annoying, a pinguecula may on rare occasions be surgically removed, but the post-operative scar may be as cosmetically objectionable as the pinguecula.

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