Pterygium is characterized by elastotic degeneration of fibrovascular proliferation and collagen. This article gives information about causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention of eye pterygium.
Causes of Eye Pterygium
- UV radiation is one of the most common causes.
- Other causes are continuous exposure to dusty, dry environments.
- People who spend more time in water sports are especially susceptible to eye Pterygiums because these environments are under intense exposure to UV.
- When UV rays attack the eye continuously, they may thicken the conjunctiva.
- This degenerative process cannot be tolerated by sensitive structures of an outer eye and may result in redness, ocular fatigue, irritation and foreign body sensation.
Symptoms of Eye Pterygium
- Persistent redness, foreign body sensation, inflammation, itchy and dry eyes.
- In advanced stages, it can affect vision.
Treatment for Eye Pterygium
- Today, there are many options available for managing pterygium, from irradiation, to amniotic membrane transplantation or conjunctival auto-grafting, along with suture and glue application.
- Pterygium does not need surgery as it is a benign growth. If it grows extently where it covers the pupil and obstructs the vision, then there is a need for surgery.
- However, no proper medical treatment is available to prevent or reduce pterygium progression. Only surgical removal is a definitive treatment.
- Even after surgical correction, pterygium may recur. If it happens, you can use strontium plaque therapy. Strontium (90Sr) is a radioactive substance which produces beta particles that penetrate into the cornea at the operation site. It suppresses the blood vessels regrowth that occur with the recurrence of pterygium. This treatment is done under local anesthesia in the eye.
- Conjunctival auto-grafting is an effective surgical technique that is used to remove pterygium.
- Another safe and effective procedure to remove pterygium is amniotic membrane transplantation.
Prevention
Pterygium is associated with excessive wind and sun exposure. Wearing wide brimmed hats or protective sunglasses and also using artificial tears may help to stop further growth or prevent their formation.
