What does pterygium mean?
Pterygium, which means “little wing” in Greek, is known among the public as “eye growth”, “eye mole” or “eye bird wing”. This disease occurs when the veins and connective tissue of the membrane layer (conjunctiva) on the white part of the eye grow abnormally and spread over the transparent cornea layer. The first form, which appears as a small yellow-white hill, is called “pinguecula”. This tissue, which usually begins to form in the white part of the eye close to the nose and in the eyelid space, is observed to progress towards the pupil over time.
What causes pterygium?
Pterygium is often seen in those exposed to ultraviolet rays of the sun and dusty and dry environments outdoors. Many patients have a familial predisposition. Pterygium is also frequently seen in those with chronic eyelash inflammation – blepharitis and dry eyes.
Is it contagious?
Pterygium can be seen in both eyes, but it is not a contagious disease.