Pterygium

Pterygium: a comprehensive review

What is a pterygium?

Pterygium is an abnormal growth of a conjunctival-like membrane (conjunctiva) on the surface of the eye, invading into the cornea. It usually appears in the form of a red or pink triangle, starting from the conjunctiva and spreading into the cornea.

What are the causes of pterygium?

The exact cause of pterygium is unknown, but possible risk factors include:

Prolonged exposure to UV rays: Prolonged exposure to the sun, without proper protection, is the main cause attributed to the development of pterygium.
Dust and wind: Prolonged exposure to dust, wind and other irritants may increase the risk.
Dry eyes: People who suffer from dry eyes are at increased risk for pterygium.
Genetic factors: There may be a genetic predisposition to the development of pterygium.
Autoimmune diseases: People with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are at increased risk for pterygium.

What are the symptoms of pterygium?

Symptoms of pterygium may include:

Erythema in the eye: the area affected by pterygium appears red or pink.
Irritation and itching: a feeling of irritation and itching in the eye, especially in dry or windy conditions.
Foreign body sensation: feeling as if there is a foreign body in the eye.
Eye inflammation: In severe cases, pterygium can cause eye inflammation.
Blindness: In very rare cases, a pterygium may grow large enough to impair vision.

How is pterygium diagnosed?

A pterygium diagnosis is usually made by an eye examination by an ophthalmologist. The doctor will examine your eyes using a slit lamp and may perform additional tests, such as measuring intraocular pressure.

How is pterygium treated?

The treatment of pterygium depends on the severity of the symptoms. Treatment options include:

Artificial tears: Using artificial tears can help relieve dry eyes and improve symptoms.
Anti-inflammatory drugs: In cases of eye inflammation, the ophthalmologist may prescribe eye drops or anti-inflammatory ointments.
Surgery: In severe cases, when a pterygium causes significant discomfort or impairs vision, surgery may be necessary to remove the growth.

How can pterygium be prevented?

The best way to prevent pterygium is to protect the eyes from UV rays. This can be done by:

Wearing sunglasses: wearing sunglasses that block 99% of UVA and UVB rays is essential for protecting your eyes from sun damage.
Wearing a hat: Wearing a wide-brimmed hat can help further protect the eyes from UV rays.
Avoiding exposure to the sun during peak hours: It is recommended to avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours, between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Smoking: Smoking is a risk factor for pterygium. Quitting smoking can reduce the risk of developing the disease.