This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Sign in
Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Treatment

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

  • the vast majority of pterygia are asymptomatic
    • some pterygia may cause corneal drying and mild irritation - this generally can be successfully treated with ocular lubricants
    • it has been suggested that using sunglasses to reduce the UV exposure may retard the growth of pterygia - as may the use of ocular lubricants (1)
  • if a pterygium becomes significantly inflamed then ophthalmological referral is indicated for a short course of topical steroids

  • ophthalmological review is indicated if:
    • patient requires reassurance
    • concerned about the cosmesis of the lesion
    • there is a history of rapid increase in the pterygium
    • the lesion is causing visual problems
    • there is significant inflammation of the pterygium and topical steroid therapy may be indicated

  • surgical removal is not indicated unless there is
    • recurrent inflammation, or,
    • the patient has concern regarding the cosmesis of the lesion, or,
    • the pterygium is encroaching over the cornea and causing a reduction in vision

Reference:

  1. Pulse (2004); 64 (30):52.

Create an account to add page annotations

Create a free account

Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.