Several patients have consulted because of a “reddish lump that grew on their eye.” Usually, these lumps start off flat and pinkish or yellowish and get bigger over time. At first, the patients don’t mind because it doesn’t seem problematic. However, it becomes more red and more noticeable. Even if they don’t experience pain, the patients worry because it looks “ugly” and feel ashamed of this flaw (“nakakahiya tingnan”).

This fleshy reddish mass is called pterygium or pugita (octopus) in Filipino. It starts from the conjunctiva (the pinkish/whitish layer of the eye), usually near the nose and can grow toward the cornea (the layer in front of the colored part (iris) of the eye). As it grows bigger, it can cover the cornea and even the pupil (the black part in the middle of the iris) and affect vision.

Sun exposure is directly linked to its development — UV radiation from sunlight causes conjunctival cells to change causing this fleshy growth. The pink or red color comes from blood vessel proliferation. People from the tropics or near the equator are at increased risk of getting pterygium as well as exposure to dusty/dry climates. People who are often outdoors like farmers, drivers, swimmers, are also likely to have pterygium.

While still small, the pterygium may not have any symptoms at all. Some patients though experience mild symptoms related to dry eye such as itching, stinging sensation (hapdi) or tearing. If the area is inflamed, they may also complain of a gritty/sandy feeling or foreign body sensation.

How do we prevent this? Whenever we’re outdoors, we should wear sunglasses or a hat to protect ourselves from UV exposure. Think of it as getting sunburn in your eyes.

Management for smaller ones include lubricant eyedrops and continuing sun protection to slow down its progression. Anti-inflammatory eyedrops may benefit some but will not make it smaller nor cure it.

If the pterygium is already covering the cornea, surgery may be needed. Newer techniques can prevent it from recurring but the risk is still there. Prevention is still the best protection.

If you’re unsure about your symptoms, consult your eye doctor.