Pterygium

Pterygium is a wing-shaped growth of vascular tissue which occurs commonly on the nasal side of the conjunctiva, the white part of the eye. Pterygium is most commonly caused by ultraviolet (UV) damage but can be exacerbated by windy and dusty conditions. While many pterygia remain stable over time, some grow onto the cornea (the clear window at the front of the eye) resulting in blurred or distorted vision.

Pterygia can be prevented by wearing sunglasses or protective eyewear particularly in the first two decades of life.