Pterygium conjunctivae is an eye disease in which conjunctival tissue grows from the corner of the eye over the eye. It is also known as conjunctival pterygium. The main cause is too much sunlight hitting the eye. This is why people in the south are affected much more frequently than those in the north. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection is a good preventative measure.
You can find further information and selected pterygium conjunctivae specialists here.
In ophthalmology, pterygium conjunctivae refers to an overgrowth of tissue in the conjunctiva. The disease is also known as conjunctival pterygium. The growth has its own blood supply through its own vessels.
At an advanced stage, the growth can spread to the cornea.
Pterygium conjunctivae mainly occurs on the side of the eye facing the nose. From there it grows towards the center of the cornea.
The triangular shape resembles a wing-like fold and shines through slightly. Slightly more men than women are affected.
The eye disease is generally benign and treatable.
In conjunctival pterygium, the conjunctiva grows over the eye © Nisathon Studio | AdobeStock
Conjunctival pterygium causes symptoms such as
Occasionally there are no symptoms at all.
If the conjunctival pterygium has spread to the cornea, vision or visual acuity may be impaired.
Distortion of the cornea can cause astigmatism. This leads to blurred and distorted vision. Although spectacle correction is possible, the lenses must be constantly adjusted to the progressive process as long as the condition is not treated.
Pterygium conjunctivae can also impair the mobility of the eyeball. As a result, the affected person may perceive double vision.
Pterygium conjunctivae can be associated with other serious eye diseases, in particular
However, the cause of these accompanying diseases is not conjunctival pterygium. Instead, excessive exposure to sunlight is also considered to be the trigger here.
Eye injuries with subsequent scarring are a common trigger for a pterygium. Eye infections, for example with herpes simplex, are also possible, as is the condition following other skin changes.
However, the main cause is considered to be excessive sun exposure to the eye. It has been shown that up to 90% of professional surfers later develop conjunctival pterygium. Their eyes are particularly exposed to UV radiation and are also unprotected. There is already talk of a so-called "surfer's eye".
The Australian population is also affected more often than average. Due to the proximity of the ozone hole, there is evidence of increased harmful effects of sunlight on the eye in Australia. Researchers suspect that strong UV exposure activates the cells of the connective tissue to proliferate.
In most cases, the side of the eye facing the nose is affected by pterygium conjunctivae. The UV rays mainly come from the outside of the eye. There they are focused by the curved cornea as if through a burning glass. As a result, they damage the conjunctival tissue on the opposite side of the eye.
In most cases, the ophthalmologist only needs to look at the symptoms to make a diagnosis. To confirm the diagnosis, he checks the extent of the membrane-like growth.
This is followed by an eye test.
The treatment depends on the condition of the disease. If there are no symptoms and vision is preserved, it may be sufficient to wait and only check the extent.
Treatment with eye drops is recommended for mild symptoms. Anti-inflammatory medication can also help if necessary.
If there is no improvement or vision is impaired, surgery is recommended. This is usually performed on an outpatient basis. Complications are rare. Aesthetic impairment is also an indication for surgery.
There are several surgical methods available to the ophthalmologist. One of the aims is to minimize the risk of recurrence. Post-operative recurrence of the wing plexus is rarely caused by UV radiation, but is a reaction to the surgical procedure.
Following the eye operation, the patient must continue to use eye drops containing cortisone for a while to ensure a good healing process.
Due to the main risk from increased sun exposure, avoiding UV radiation is a good way of preventing the disease. You don't have to avoid spending time outdoors, as this has many health benefits in itself. Staying in the shade and especially wearing sunglasses with UV protection are ideal preventative measures against pterygium conjunctivae.
To do this, you should choose sunglasses with wide side arms to protect against lateral sunlight: It is precisely the lateral irradiation into the eye that promotes the development of pterygium conjunctivae.
Tear substitutes are also a recommended preventative measure for dry eyes.
The Leading Medicine Guide's quality assurance is ensured by the following acceptance prerequisites.
