Pterygium is defined as a protective conjunctival tissue growth found on the nasal part of the the eyeball.
PATHOPHYSIOLOGY: When the eyes are constantly exposed to irritants like dust, sunlight, particles, Dry air, smoke et.c. The body in a bid to protect the eyes stimulate a protective tissue growth to shield the eyes from unfavorable environmental conditions. This tissue growth can extend beyond the visual axis and impede vision. It can also press on the cornea thereby resulting in Astigmatism. In extreme wether conditions, this tissue growth can become inflamed, by virtue of vascular proliferation resulting in pterygitis.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS: reddish tissue on the nasal part of the eyeball, foreign body sensation, gritty sensation, dryness, pain
TREATMENT: This growth can be removed surgical by a procedure called PTERYGIUM EXCISION. Discomforts as a result of inflammation can be relieved by corticosteroids, Topical lubricants and NSAIDS
