Pterygium

A pterygium, otherwise known as “surfer’s eye”, is a benign growth over the cornea. It originates from the conjunctiva that normally covers the white part of the eye.

Sun exposure as well as wind and sand are thought to present risk factors for developing a pterygium, therefore it is frequent in people that live near the equator.

The condition is generally addressed with pterygium surgery when it grows to the point of interfering with vision or if it is the source of chronic irritation or inflammation.

Pterygium removal surgery may include the use of Mitomycin-C which inhibits re-growth as well as amniotic membrane or conjunctival autograft.

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