What is it and how does it differ from pterygium
The pinguecula is located on the conjunctiva and always stops at the edge of the cornea, without moving to the transparent part of the eye. A pterygium is a triangular fold with blood vessels that creeps onto the cornea and, as it grows, can close the pupil and cause astigmatism. Outwardly, both formations begin similarly, so an ophthalmologist distinguishes them when examined under magnification. Pinguecula is the most common benign change of the conjunctiva in adults, and it becomes more common with age.
- Does not transfer to the cornea
- Yellowish or cream color, slightly raised
- Most often on the inside of the eye, closer to the nose
- May be in both eyes
- Pterygium, in contrast, creeps onto the cornea
Causes and risk factors
The main factor is ultraviolet radiation accumulated over the years. That is why pinguecula is more often found in people who work a lot on the street: builders, drivers, farmers, welders. Additional contributions include dry air, wind, dust and smoke, which constantly irritate the surface of the eye. Age also plays a role: the conjunctiva loses its elasticity over the years. Wearing contact lenses and chronic dry eyes increase discomfort, but do not cause pinguecula in themselves.
- Prolonged exposure to open sun
- Working outside without sunglasses
- Welding work without eye protection
- Wind, dust, sand, smoke
- Dry air and air conditioners
- Age over 40
Symptoms
Most often, a pinguecula is noticed by chance, looking at oneself in the mirror: a small cream-colored bump appears on the squirrel. There may be no complaints at all. When the formation rises above the surface, the tear film over it is less distributed, and dryness, burning, and a feeling of speck occur. Sometimes the pinguecula becomes inflamed: it turns red, slightly swells, and the eye becomes sensitive to light. This condition is called pingueculitis and usually goes away within a few days. The pinguecula does not affect vision.
- Yellowish elevation on the white of the eye
- Dryness and sandy feeling
- Periodic redness around the lesion
- Burning in wind and sun
- Cosmetic discomfort
- Vision remains the same
Diagnostics
An examination with a slit lamp is enough: the doctor sees the characteristic deposit and accurately determines whether it reaches the cornea. At the same time, the condition of the tear film is assessed, since dry eye often accompanies pinguecula and intensifies complaints. Visual acuity is checked to ensure that the formation does not affect the optics. If the outline is unusual, there is pigment, its own feeding vessels or rapid growth, the doctor conducts an additional examination and, if necessary, takes a biopsy to rule out a tumor.
- Slit lamp examination
- Visual acuity test
- Tear film assessment and dry eye test
- Photo recording for dynamic observation
- Biopsy for an atypical type of formation
Treatment and prevention
In the vast majority of cases, no treatment is required—observation and eye protection are sufficient. To relieve dryness, use moisturizing drops, preferably without preservatives. For inflammation, the ophthalmologist may prescribe a short course of anti-inflammatory drops; Hormonal drugs are used strictly as directed and not for long, since they increase intraocular pressure. Surgical removal is discussed if there is a significant cosmetic defect, persistent irritation, problems with wearing contact lenses, or an unclear diagnosis. After removal, the pinguecula may appear again if the eyes are not protected.
- UV filter sunglasses and hat
- Moisturizing drops without preservatives
- Safety glasses when welding and working in dust
- A short course of anti-inflammatory drops for pingueculitis only as prescribed by a doctor
- Taking breaks and hydrating when working behind a screen
- Surgical removal according to indications
