Pterygium (Surfer’s Eye)
Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatments
What is a pterygium ?
A pterygium is a wing shaped growth that covers the white part of the eye. It typically presents near the inner corner of the eye and can encroach onto the cornea towards the pupil. It is composed of conjunctival tissue and can affect one or both eyes. The main cause of a pterygium is exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun.
Symptoms
- Irritation, redness or a gritty feeling
- A visible growth on the white of the eye
- Blurred vision, if the growth extends onto the cornea, covering the pupil
Diagnosis
Diagnosed through a routine eye examination. On the day of your appointment your vision will be tested using an eye chart and anaesthetic eye drops will help measure the pressure in your eyes. The affected area will be assessed using a microscope. Finally, dilating drops will also be used to examine the back surface of the eye . This includes the retina, blood vessels, optic nerve and macula.
Treatments
- Monitoring — for small, symptom-free pterygia
- Pterygium surgery — removes the growth and repairs the surface of the eye
Outcomes
Surgery is generally successful in removing the growth and restoring comfort, though recurrence is possible in up to 10% of cases.