Pterygium

A pterygium is a fleshy pink, wedge-shaped growth of abnormal tissue that forms on the eye. Pterygiums usually form in the inner corners of one or both eyes.

 

These growths are quite harmless but can result in blurred vision if they continue to grow onto the cornea.

 

What Is A Pterygium?

 

A pterygium is a raised, fleshy growth that extends from the conjunctiva, the membrane that covers the white of the eye, onto the cornea.

 

It’s also known as “surfer’s eye” because it’s often caused by exposure to the sun, wind, sand, and salt.

 

 

What Are The Symptoms?

 

 Symptoms can include: 

     

      • Appearance: A raised, triangular, or wedge-shaped growth on the eye that’s usually pink, white, or red. Blood vessels may be visible. 

      • Irritation: Itching, burning, or a feeling of something in the eye. The whites of the eye may appear bloodshot. 

      • Vision: Blurred vision if the growth extends onto the cornea. 

      • Eye movement: In rare cases, the growth may restrict eye movement. 

      • Other symptoms: Dryness, redness, swelling, or overflow of tears. 

     

    Many people with a pterygium don’t experience any symptoms, especially if the growth is small. People with this condition will experience the sensation of having something stuck in the eye. The eyes may also become dry, irritated and inflamed. It is difficult to wear contact lenses with the presence of a pterygium.

     

    What Causes Pterygium?

     

    Pterygium, also known as surfer’s eye, is caused by a number of factors, including:

       

        • UV radiation: Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight is the primary cause of pterygium. 

        • Dry, windy, or dusty environments: Chronic exposure to dry, windy, or dusty conditions can contribute to the development of pterygium. 

        • Age: The risk of developing pterygium increases with age. 

        • Genetics: Genetics may also play a role in the development of pterygium. 

        • Vitamin A deficiency: A deficiency in vitamin A may be a contributing factor. 

      • Human papilloma virus (HPV): HPV may also be a contributing factor. 
       

      This condition is most prevalent in the eyes of people who partake in outdoor sports such as surfers, sailors or skiers, as they are exposed to high levels of reflected UV light. Pterygiums usually develop between the ages of 20 and 50.

       

      How Is It Treated?

       

      Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:

       

      Protection from UV radiation

      Wearing a hat and wraparound sunglasses can help stop or slow the growth of a small, painless pterygium. Wraparound sunglasses are best because they shield the eyes from UV light coming in from the sides of the face. 

       

      Eye drops or ointments

      Artificial tears, lubricating eye drops, or decongestant drops can treat minor irritation or lubricate the cornea. Steroid eye drops or ointments can treat severe inflammation, redness, swelling, itching, or pain. 

       

      Surgery

      Surgery is the only way to remove a pterygium. An ophthalmologist can perform this minimally invasive outpatient procedure, which usually takes no more than 30 minutes. It’s best to remove a pterygium before it grows across the cornea and impacts vision, or it may scar the cornea and cause permanent vision problems. 

       

      A pterygium is not cancerous, but it can cause discomfort, affect vision, or grow aggressively. If you have a pterygium, you should schedule regular eye exams with your eye care provider to monitor its growth and impact on your vision.