An example of a pterygium.

This is a condition that is seen most often in people who spend a great deal of time outdoors. It is not exactly know what causes the condition to occur but physicians feel that exposure to ultraviolet light may be one of the key factors. It generally occurs between the age of 20 to 40 and men develop the condition more than women. It is not considered to be a serious condition but can affect the appearance of the eye as well as causing vision problems.

Condition and Symptoms

Pterygium is a noncancerous growth that usually grows on the surface of the eye. Blood vessels become slightly raised and are visible on the surface of the eye. While the lesions cause no particular problems, because they are visible, the person may feel self-conscious. The condition may become uncomfortable and has been described as the feeling of a foreign object in the eye, like a piece of grit. Inflammation and redness can occur. Vision can become blurred if the lesion grows over the cornea, the outer layer of the eye.

Treatments

Dr. Lisa Bunin will examine the eye using a microscope called a slit lamp. This will allow her to give an accurate diagnosis and necessary treatment of the condition. If the patient is not experiencing blurred vision then eye drops containing steroids bay be sufficient to relieve an inflammation. If the lesion begins to grow over the iris of the eye, surgery may be necessary to restore full vision.

Pterygium surgery requires that the lesion be removed from the surface of the eye. A small piece of skin is taken from beneath the eyelid to cover the hole in the conjunctiva. This small graft of skin helps to prevent re-occurrence of the condition. Dr. Lisa Bunin has experience in the removal of pterygium from the eye that will restore the appearance and vision for Pennsylvania ophthalmology patients who suffer from this condition.