Treatment

• 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.