A Family Doctor's Tale - PTERYGIUM

DOC I HAVE A PTERYGIUM

A pterygium is actually a small fleshy growth at the corners of the conjunctiva(white part)of the eye. Many patients think it is cancerous or a large blood clot and may request its removal.
Removal is usually unnecessary unless the growth is covering the cornea(black part) of the eye and affecting the vision.

Pterygium( A Simple Guide to Pterygium) is a fleshy tissue that grows in on the inner corner of the eye towards the pupil.
It may appear on the outer corner.
It is usually triangular in shape.


Pterygium is more common in people who spend time outdoors than indoor


The exact cause of Pterygium is not well known.
1. Long-term exposure to sunlight, especially ultraviolet (UV) rays

2.chronic eye irritation 

3. dusty conditions 

4. dry eye may contribute to pterygium as well.


Symptoms varies from mild to severe:

1.discomfort in the eye


2.Conjunctival congestion


3.Tearing -excess tears from irritation


Signs:

1.fleshy growth on the conjunctiva on inner side of eye growing towards pupils


2.increased dilated blood vessels in the fleshy growth


The fleshy growth on the conjunctiva on inner corner of eye may grow towards the pupils and cause:
1.Partial blindness if the pterygium covers the cornea


2.Recurrent irritation and conjunctivitis of eyes.


3.Severe infection of the eye - rare


Treatment depends on the severity of the pterygium:

1.Mild:
Eye drops with anticongestion and anti-inflammatory properties may shrink the blood vessels which provide nourishment for the growth of the pterygium.


2.Severe:
Once the pterygium reaches the cornea and may cover the cornea, surgical resection of the pterygium may be necessary otherwise the eye sight may be affected.

Surgical resection may also be done if the pterygium is unsightly.


The prognosis is usually good.


Recurrence is rare but do occur due to regrowth of the blood vessel supplying the pterygium. 
This occurs more in younger people.


Prevention of growth of pterygium is by:

Wearing UV protective sunglasses


Avoiding dry and dusty conditions


Using artificial tear eye drops to prevent eye dryness