Pterygium
What is a pterygium?
A pterygium is a wing-shaped degenerative change of the conjunctiva - a whitish fibrovascular growth that appears on the visible surface of the eye between the eyelids. It most commonly begins to overgrow the cornea from the nasal side - from the nose towards the centre of the eye - though it less commonly appears from the temporal side.
In the beginning it is only an aesthetic problem. When it begins to advance towards the pupil, it also becomes a medical one.
How does it develop?
Pterygium most commonly occurs in people who have been long-term exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, live in warmer and sunnier regions, or are chronically exposed to external irritants - dust and wind. It is considered a degenerative change of conjunctival tissue in response to these external influences.
How is it recognised?
A visible whitish or pinkish growth on the surface of the eye - usually on the nasal side
Mild irritation, redness, or a foreign body sensation in the eye
Occasional increased tearing
In advanced cases: blurring of vision or a distorted image due to irregular astigmatism induced by the lesion
A pterygium should be distinguished from a pseudopterygium - a similar-looking change that is actually a scar formation of different origin. The difference can be reliably determined only by an ophthalmologist on examination.
How is it treated?
The treatment of pterygium is surgical. With modern surgical techniques, the lesion is removed and the possibility of recurrence is kept to a minimum.
Surgery is not immediately necessary - signs of progression are monitored. When pterygium is seen to be advancing towards the pupil, surgical removal is indicated. Waiting until the lesion has reached the centre of the cornea makes treatment more difficult - as the astigmatism it induces may partially persist even after removal.
What if it is not treated in time?
A pterygium that advances without treatment may:
Reach the central zone of the cornea and significantly reduce visual acuity
Induce irregular astigmatism that may partially remain even after surgical removal
Cause chronic eye irritation and discomfort
The sooner it is removed - while still far from the pupil - the better and more predictable the treatment results.
Frequently asked questions
Can sunglasses prevent pterygium?
UV protection is key, as prolonged sun exposure is the main risk factor. Quality sunglasses with a UV filter - as well as glasses that protect against wind and dust - can reduce the risk of pterygium forming and slow the progression of one that already exists.
Can a pterygium return after surgery?
Recurrence is possible, but modern surgical techniques significantly reduce this possibility. The risk of return is lower if the lesion is operated on while it is still small and far from the pupil - and if UV protection is maintained after surgery.
Noticed a white growth on your eye?
A pterygium will not recede on its own - schedule an examination and find out if it is time for removal.