Pterygium

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Eye anatomy

A pterygium is a non-cancerous growth of the clear, thin tissue that lays over the white part of the eye (conjunctiva). One or both eyes may be involved.

The cause is unknown, but it is more frequent in people with excess outdoor exposure to sunlight and wind, such as those who work outdoors.

Risk factors are exposure to sunny, dusty, sandy, or windblown areas. Farmers, fishermen, and people living near the equator are often affected. Pterygium is rare in children.

Review Date: 10/20/2006
Reviewed By: Manju Subramanian, MD, Assistant Professor in Ophthalmology, Vitreoretinal Disease and Surgery, Boston University Eye Associates, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.