A bump near the colored part of your eye: pterygium or pinguecula?

The key difference is where the growth extends

A pinguecula is a raised, often yellowish spot on the conjunctiva, the clear tissue over the white of the eye. A pterygium is a fleshy growth that extends onto the cornea, the clear window in front of the colored part of the eye. It may stay small or grow enough to affect sight.

Either can cause redness, burning, or a gritty feeling. Appearance alone is not a reliable way to diagnose a new bump. ¹.

What an examination can clarify

An eye doctor examines the surface with a slit lamp, a microscope used to look closely at the eye. A pterygium can distort vision by changing the cornea’s shape. Some other growths can resemble these conditions, so an unusual lesion may need removal and examination under a microscope. ².

Before the visit, note when you first noticed the spot, whether it seems to be changing, and any discomfort or blurred vision. Ask: Is this affecting my cornea? What changes should prompt an earlier visit?

Monitoring or removal?

Many surface growths do not need surgery. Lubricating eye drops may ease irritation, and surgery for a pinguecula is usually unnecessary. A pterygium that grows enough to cause problems may need removal. A tissue graft can help reduce the chance of regrowth, but removal does not guarantee that it will never return. ¹.

Removal may also be discussed when a growth interferes with blinking, becomes thickened and painful, changes the corneal curve, or looks suspicious. The decision depends on the examination. ².

If monitoring is recommended, ask when to return. If surgery is being considered, ask about recovery, possible complications, and the chance of recurrence in your situation.

Protect the eye’s surface outdoors

UV exposure is associated with these growths, and wind and dust can add irritation. Choose sunglasses labeled to block 99 to 100 percent of both UVA and UVB rays, even on cloudy days. Use appropriate safety glasses or goggles for dusty work and activities that could injure the eye. ³.

When not to wait for a routine appointment

Seek urgent eye care for intense pain, a sudden vision change, new blurred vision, or a very red, watery eye. An injury or an object stuck in the eye also needs immediate assessment. Do not assume these symptoms come from a familiar surface bump. ⁴.

This article is general education. An examination is needed to identify a growth and recommend care for your eye.