PTERYGIUM

Pterygium is a benign growth of fibroelastic tissue on the eye. Usually extends into the cornea from the nasal side. May be unilateral or bilateral.

EPIDEMIOLOGY
Common among males, aged of 20-50 yrs.

RISK FACTORS
– Age: commonly seen in ages between 20-50yrs
– Prolonged UV exposure
– Male Gender
– Living at low altitudes or low precipitate areas

CLINICAL FEATURES
– Redness, Itching, Irritation, Blurry vision

DIAGNOSIS
Clinically – fibroelastic growth seen on nasal side of the eye, extending into the cornea. Maybe unilateral or bilateral

MANAGEMENT
Prevention / Asymptomatic Pterygium
– Avoid UV exposure, use UV sunglasses – delays progression
Irritation or pain
– Artificial tears or lubricants
– Topical steroids if a lot of pain (Fluorometholone ophthalmic drops) – under ophthalmology supervision
Surgical intervention
– In cases of vision disturbance or pain

COMPLICATIONS
Known to increase rate of macular degeneration. However it is unclear if removal slows down the rate.

References:
1. Heidi Chumley, MD. Color Atlas of Family Medicine. Pterygium. 2nd Edition. 110-13
2. Epocrates App (Accessed Jan 2018)