Pterygium

Overview

Pronounced “ter – ij – ee – um,” pterygium is a wedge-shaped mass that develops over the limbus and grows towards the center of the cornea. A pterygium develops as the conjunctiva begins to degenerate in a particular area.

Cases of pterygium are significantly more abundant in areas with hot, dry climates. Chronice exposure to warmth, wind, and UV radiation is irritating to the surface layer of the eye (the conjunctiva), which is believed to be the cause of a pterygium.

Signs & Symptoms of Pterygium

Early progression of a pterygium produces no symptoms, though people may be bothered by their cosmetic appearance. Once a pterygium becomes established, however, it can pull on the cornea, altering its shape and producing irregular astigmatism. In many cases, pterygia will only become problematic if they grow to the point where they interfere with vision, in which case they are surgically removed.

Pterygium Treatment

Surgical removal of a pterygium frequently leads to recurrence, often with a much more aggressive pterygium. For this reason, current procedures for pterygium treatment call for grafting of the area following removal of the pterygium. This is not always successful, but it does work in some cases. For a small pterygium that is causing discomfort and irritation, artificial tears are useful to lubricate the surface of the eye.

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Pterygium Prevention

Pterygia are much more abundant in dry, hot, windy areas, so it is important for individuals who are chronically exposed to these conditions to wear sunglasses and to make sure to that their eyes are always moist and comfortable (with artificial tears, if needed).

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