Pterygium vs. Pinguecula

• Pterygium: fleshy triangular mass that extends to the cornea.

  • May interfere with vision.

• Pinguecula: yellowish elevated bump or patch that does not grow across the cornea.

  • Treatment is not usually necessary but can be resected.

• Both are conjunctival growths that may result from chronic actinic irritation, repeat trauma, or exposure to dry/windy conditions.

• Typically occur on the nasal side.

• They may cause irritation or cosmetic blemish.