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A pterygium is a wing-shaped growth that encroaches onto the cornea (clear surface on the front of the eye). It is usually due to excessive UV exposure and is common in Australia due to the strong UV radiation here. It’s commonly known as “surfer’s eye”.
Pterygia are most common in people in their 20s and 30s. It is usually caused by environmental factors, in particular excessive exposure to UV radiation, windy and dusty conditions.
Many people do not have any symptoms from their pterygium. As it grows larger, it may start to distort the cornea and cause visual blurring. It may cause discomfort and become intermittently red and irritated. If it is raised, then it can cause a “foreign body” type sensation.
Your ophthalmologist can diagnose this with an eye exam. A test called topography, may also be done to measure the shape of the cornea and to see if the pterygium is causing any distortion.
Asymptomatic pterygiums may not require any treatment.
If the pterygium is causing irritation and discomfort, sometimes simple measures such as using lubricant drops can be helpful. Otherwise, the pterygium may need to be removed surgically.
If the pterygium is larger and causing visual problems, then it may need to be removed surgically.
Surgery is usually done under local anaesthesia. It involves excising the pterygium, and replacing the bare area on the white part of the eye with a thin mucous membrane (conjunctival autograft) taken from the top part of your eye. This conjunctival autograft helps with the healing, prevents recurrence, and achieves a good cosmetic result.
Our ophthalmologists here at the Lions Eye Institute can help you with advice on Pterygium at your consultation. You’ll need a current referral from either a GP or an optometrist to schedule an appointment.
You can request an appointment below.
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