Pterygium (patient information): Difference between revisions
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==Treatment options== | ==Treatment options== | ||
No treatment is required unless the pterygium begins to block vision, in which case it should be removed with surgery. Because a pterygium is visible, many people want to have it removed for cosmetic reasons. However, surgery is not recommended for purely cosmetic reasons. If a pterygium is surgically removed, it may grow back, particularly if the patient is less than 40 years of age. | |||
Lubricants can reduce the redness and provide relief from the chronic irritation. | |||
==Diseases with similar symptoms== | ==Diseases with similar symptoms== | ||
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What is a pterygium?
A pterygium is a non-cancerous, whitish-pinkish, and triangular-shaped tissue growth on the conjuntiva. It typically grows from the nasal side of the eye inward, but it rarely grows so large that it begins to cover the pupil of the eye. Some pterygia grow slowly throughout a person's life, while others stop growing after a certain point. One or both eyes may be involved.
What are the symptoms of a pterygium?
The primary symptom of a pterygium is a painless area of elevated whitish-pinkish tissue, with blood vessels on the inner or outer edge of the cornea.
What are the causes of a pterygium?
Scientists do not know what causes pterygia to develop. However, since people who have pterygia usually have spent a significant time outdoors, many doctors believe ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun may be a factor.
Who is at risk for a pterygium?
Pterygia are more common in people in the 20-40 age group that live in sunny climates. Risk factors are exposure to sunny, dusty, sandy, or windblown areas. As a result, farmers, fishermen, and people living near the equator are often affected. While some studies report a higher prevalence of pterygia in men than in women, this may reflect different rates of exposure to UV light. Pterygium is rarely observed in children.
How to know you have a pterygium?
A physical examination of the eyes and eyelids confirms the diagnosis. Special tests are usually not necessary.
When to seek urgent medical care
Treatment options
No treatment is required unless the pterygium begins to block vision, in which case it should be removed with surgery. Because a pterygium is visible, many people want to have it removed for cosmetic reasons. However, surgery is not recommended for purely cosmetic reasons. If a pterygium is surgically removed, it may grow back, particularly if the patient is less than 40 years of age.
Lubricants can reduce the redness and provide relief from the chronic irritation.
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for a pterygium
Directions to Hospitals Treating pterygium
Prevention of a pterygium
In areas where sunlight is strong, wearing protective eyeglasses, sunglasses, and/or hats with brims is suggested.
What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)
Sources
http://www.nei.nih.gov/health/cornealdisease/index.asp