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Pinguecula

Yellowish-white degenerative conjunctival growth from UV exposure

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Göz Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Pinguecula?

Pinguecula is a yellowish, slightly raised lesion on the bulbar conjunctiva, typically located nasally or temporally adjacent to the limbus, caused by elastotic degeneration of subepithelial collagen due to chronic ultraviolet light exposure, wind and dust. Unlike pterygium, the lesion never invades the corneal surface.

Histopathology shows basophilic degeneration of stromal collagen with hyalinization. While usually asymptomatic and cosmetic, episodes of pingueculitis present with redness, irritation and a foreign-body sensation. Risk factors include outdoor occupation, equatorial latitudes and prolonged sun exposure without eye protection.

Symptoms

Yellowish-white raised conjunctival nodule
Foreign body sensation
Mild redness around the lesion
Dryness and intermittent irritation
Cosmetic concern
Episodic inflammation (pingueculitis) with hyperemia
Asymptomatic in most cases

Risk Factors

Chronic UV light exposure
Outdoor occupations (farming, fishing, construction)
Living near the equator or at high altitude
Wind, dust and dry environments
Lack of UV-protective eyewear
Smoking
Older age (degenerative)

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent redness and irritation
  • Recurrent foreign-body sensation
  • Significant cosmetic concern
  • Suspected growth onto the cornea (rule out pterygium)
  • Painful inflammation episodes
  • Vision changes

Treatment Methods

01
Slit-lamp examination to rule out pterygium and corneal involvement
02
Preservative-free lubricating eye drops multiple times daily
03
Short courses of low-potency topical corticosteroids (loteprednol, fluorometholone) for pingueculitis flares
04
Wraparound 100% UV-protective sunglasses to prevent progression
05
Avoidance of wind, dust and smoke exposure with protective eyewear
06
Topical NSAID drops as alternative for inflammation
07
Conjunctival surgical excision with autograft for cosmetic, recurrent inflammation or contact lens intolerance
08
Smoking cessation counseling
09
Annual ophthalmology follow-up to monitor progression

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Göz Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Göz Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.