Pterygium - Treatment

Treatment:

No treatment is needed unless the pterygium begins to block vision or causes symptoms that are hard to control. Then it should be removed with surgery. Wear protective glasses and a hat with a brim to prevent the condition from returning.

Expectations (prognosis):

Most pterygia cause no problems and do not need treatment. If a pterygium affects the cornea, results are usually good after it is removed.

Complications:

A pterygium can return after it is removed.

Calling your health care provider:

People with pterygium should be seen by an ophthalmologist each year, so that the condition can be treated before it affects vision.

Call for an appointment with your ophthalmologist if you have had a pterygium in the past and your symptoms return.

Eye anatomy

Reviewed last on: 11/8/2010
Daniel E. Bustos, MD, MS, Private Practice specializing in Comprehensive Ophthalmology in Eugene, OR. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Farjo QA, Sugar A. Pterygium and conjunctival degenerations. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, eds. Ophthalmology. 3rd ed. St. Louis, MO: Mosby Elsevier; 2008:chap 4.9.

Conjunctiva

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