Pterygium and pinguecula are eye conditions that present with some similarities, so it is helpful to understand their differences so you can recognize them early and take the right preventive or treatment steps. Although an appointment with our expert team at Advanced Eye Surgeons is the best way to receive an accurate diagnosis, the following guidelines can help.
What is Pterygium?
A pterygium, often called surfer’s eye, is a fleshy, wedge-shaped growth that starts on the white part of the eye (the conjunctiva) and gradually extends toward the cornea, the transparent dome-shaped surface of the eye that protects the lens. It is a vascular growth that often has a pinkish color and visible blood vessels. Pterygia are typically caused by excess sun exposure, earning its nickname, but anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors can develop this eye condition.
What is Pinguecula?
A pinguecula is a yellowish bump that forms on the conjunctiva, usually near the tear duct or the side closest to the nose. It develops from accumulations of fat, calcium, or protein beneath the conjunctiva. Unlike a pterygium, this growth is generally not vascular, meaning it does not have prominent blood vessels, and it does not grow over the cornea. Pingueculae typically remain stable in size and are usually a benign cosmetic concern rather than a threat to vision.
Knowing the Symptoms of Each
Pingueculae often cause mild symptoms, while some people might not have any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include dryness and eye irritation. If a pinguecula becomes inflamed, a condition known as pingueculitis, these symptoms may become more pronounced, though they still rarely cause vision changes.
Pterygia, on the other hand, are more likely to produce ongoing irritation, redness, itching, and the feeling that something is in the eye. The growth can gradually grow toward the cornea and pupil if left untreated, which can alter the shape of the cornea or block the line of sight, causing blurred or double vision.
The Differences of Pterygium vs Pinguecula
While both conditions involve growths on the conjunctiva, their characteristics differ in several important ways. A pinguecula appears as a yellowish bump without visible blood vessels and is located next to the cornea, but rarely grows toward it. A pterygium, on the other hand, presents as a pink, triangular, or fleshy tissue with visible vessels that begins on the conjunctiva and grows onto the cornea. This progression can lead to changes in vision and sometimes requires surgical intervention if it advances too far.
Preventing Pterygium and Pinguecula
Pterygium and pinguecula can both be caused by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure and dusty or windy environments, so eye protection is an important aspect of preventing these eye growths. Wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection and adding a wide-brimmed hat or visor when outdoors can significantly reduce risk. If you work or spend time in dusty or windy settings, use protective glasses to shield your eyes. Keeping your eyes moist with preservative-free artificial tears can also help, especially in dry climates or in environments with air conditioning or heating that reduces humidity. Whenever possible, avoid prolonged direct sun exposure, particularly during midday when UV rays are most intense.
Treating Pterygium
Treatment for a pterygium depends on its size and symptoms. In mild cases, lubricating eye ointments or steroid eye drops can help relieve dryness and irritation. Advanced or repeated growth of pterygia that threaten vision or cause significant discomfort may require surgical removal. Pterygium surgery is minimally invasive and requires the removal of the growth along with a small portion of conjunctival tissue. This tissue will be replaced with a graft to cover the area where the growth was removed, reducing the chance of recurrence. Since pterygium can return even after surgery, ongoing eye protection against UV rays and irritants remains essential.
Schedule an Appointment
If you notice unusual growths or persistent discomfort in your eyes, we encourage you to schedule an appointment at one of our two offices in Tamarac and Boca Raton, FL. Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Archana Gupta and our team of eye experts can assess your eyes and help you safely and effectively restore your eye health.
