Pterygium & Pinguecula
A pterygium and a pinguecula are common ocular surface growths often linked to environmental exposure. While usually non-cancerous, a pterygium can eventually threaten your sight if it is allowed to progress across the cornea. Early monitoring is the best way to manage these conditions effectively.
What are these growths?
A pinguecula is a small, yellowish nodule that forms on the conjunctiva, which is the clear membrane covering the white part of your eye. These are typically deposits of protein, calcium, or lipid. You will usually find a pinguecula on the side of the eye closest to the nose. While often harmless, in certain instances, a pinguecula can develop into a more significant pterygium.
A pterygium is a fleshy, triangular-shaped growth that also originates on the conjunctiva. Unlike a pinguecula, this growth can slowly advance across the cornea and into your visual axis, which can significantly impact your vision. Because a pterygium is often slightly raised, it can cause persistent redness or a gritty sensation of irritation.
Causes & Prevention
Both pterygia and pingueculae are primarily caused by cumulative UV damage from the sun. These conditions are much more prevalent in Australia among surfers, farmers, and individuals who spend the majority of their time outdoors without adequate eye protection.
To help prevent a pinguecula from forming or a pterygium from growing, we highly recommend:
Management & Assessment
Managing a pinguecula or a pterygium focuses on comfort and monitoring. Lubrication using preservative-free tears can be used to soothe the irritation and dryness caused by a raised pterygium. These eye drops are available at any of our eye clinics.
Our friendly team will assess the size and health of your pinguecula or pterygium at your next appointment. If a pterygium begins to affect your vision or causes chronic discomfort, we can discuss referral options for surgical removal.