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Pterygium

Fibrovascular Growth of the Conjunctiva onto the Cornea

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

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 Pterygium?

Elastotic degeneration of conjunctival stroma with fibrovascular proliferation extending over the corneal limbus.

Grows from the interpalpebral conjunctiva (usually nasal) and invades the cornea.

Classified by appearance (atrophic, intermediate, fleshy) and extent (grade 1–3).

Distinct from pinguecula (yellowish elevated lesion confined to the conjunctiva).

Symptoms

Visible pink/red triangular growth on the white of the eye extending onto the cornea
Foreign-body sensation and chronic irritation
Redness, tearing, and burning
Induced astigmatism reducing vision
Blurred vision when the lesion reaches the visual axis
Cosmetic concern and eye appearance changes

Risk Factors

Chronic ultraviolet light (sun) exposure
Outdoor occupation (agriculture, fishing, construction)
Living near the equator (high UV regions)
Dry, dusty, or windy environment
Male sex and age 20–50 years
Chronic ocular surface irritation

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • Growing lesion encroaching on the visual axis
  • Chronic redness, irritation, or cosmetic concern
  • Rapid growth or atypical appearance (rule out ocular surface neoplasia)

Treatment Methods

01
UV protection: sunglasses with UV400 protection, wide-brimmed hats
02
Artificial tears and short-course topical corticosteroids/NSAIDs for inflammation
03
Observation for small, quiet pterygia not affecting vision
04
Surgical excision with conjunctival autograft (gold standard) or amniotic membrane graft
05
Intraoperative adjuvants: mitomycin C (reduces recurrence) in selected cases
06
Postoperative topical steroids to minimize inflammation and recurrence, plus UV protection

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.