Pterygium, from the Greek pterygos meaning “wing”, is a common ocular surface lesion originating in the conjunctiva with progressive involvement of the cornea. An increased incidence is noted in latitudes nearer the equator and in individuals with a history of increased UV exposure. Some studies have shown a slightly higher incidence in males than females, which may only reflect a higher rate of UV radiation.

Your ophthalmologist can treat the discomfort, redness or swelling from a pterygium with lubricating or steroid eye drops. If a pterygium grows large enough to cause problems, your ophthalmologist will probably recommend surgery to remove it. Once the pterygium is removed, your surgeon may transplant a thin piece of normal tissue onto the affected area. This technique helps reduce the chance that your pterygium will grow back. The best way to keep a pterygium from coming back is to avoid dryness, sunlight and dust.