Pterygium & Pinguecula

Pterygium and Pinguecula are both excess growths of conjuctival tissue (the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye).  Pinguecula is excess growth that is limited to the white part of the eye and a Pterygium is that growth which extends over the cornea itself.  Both conditions are relatively benign and are thought to be a by-product of UV light exposure from the sun.  At times, they may become red and irritated and may require anti-inflammatories to eliminate the redness.