Pterygia
What are pterygia?
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| A large inflamed pterygium that is beginning to obstruct the pupil. |
Pterygia are triangular shaped growths that start on the sclera, or 'white' of the eye, and slowly grow out onto the cornea.
Pterygia are a type of scar tissue. The majority are caused by ultraviolet light.
Complications of pterygia
All pterygia cause problems to some extent.
An individual may suffer from one or many of the following symptoms:
- An unacceptable appearance. Some pterygia become very large and unsightly.
- Intermittant or constant inflammation resulting in redness and discomfort
- Visual distortion due to corneal warpage or scarring
- Obstruction of the pupil
Mimics of pterygia
Several diseases of the conjunctiva can mimic pterygia.
The most common condition is Ocular surface squamous neoplasia.