The Eye’s Unwanted Guests: Pinguecula and Pterygium
Have you ever looked at your eyes in the mirror and noticed a raised growth on the white parts of the eye? If so, you might have observed a pinguecula or a pterygium.
A pinguecula is a fairly common non-malignant lesion that appears on the interpalpebral bulbar conjunctiva, or the white parts of the eye. The lesion typically has a yellow-white, raised appearance and can vary in size. These bump-like lesions are commonly found nasal and temporal to the cornea because its etiology is primarily associated with UV-light exposure. Additional risk factors include dry, windy, or dusty environments and closure proximity to the equator. Environmental irritants and UV-exposure results in degeneration of cells and connective tissue resulting in the bump formation. A majority of patients with pingueculas are asymptomatic but some can experience dryness, foreign body sensation or irritation if the pinguecula becomes inflamed. In terms of treatment, we would recommend topical lubricants to help with ocular symptoms and always advise UV protection to prevent further growth.
A pterygium can be thought of as the pinguecula’s “wing-man”. These lesions commonly appear fleshy, white-pink, triangular, and raised. They originate on the interpalpebral bulbar conjunctiva but also extend towards and sometimes onto the cornea. This growth is more commonly found on the nasal side of the cornea. Similar to a pinguecula, etiology and risk factors are UV-light exposure, environmental irritants, and residence near the equator. Symptoms can vary depending on the size of the lesion and whether it is inflamed or not. If a patient is relatively asymptomatic or experiences ocular surface discomfort we recommend topical lubricants. If a patient is unhappy with the cosmetic appearance of their eyes or if the pterygium extends over the cornea and starts to impact vision there is the option of having the lesion surgically removed but there is risk of recurrence.
Although both of these ocular conditions are quite common it’s important that patients have their routine eye exams to ensure that the lesions are not something more serious. During a comprehensive eye exam our doctors will be able to evaluate for both conditions during the slit lamp evaluation. Therefore, make sure you’re up-to-date with your routine check ups and don’t forget to wear those sunglasses!