Pterygium

Pterygium is the growth of tissue from the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the white part of the eye, onto the cornea, the transparent layer covering the front of the eye. It is often associated with exposure to UV radiation in hot climates, as well as chronic ocular surface dryness or inflammation and genetic factors. Once the lesion forms, it does not regress and tends to grow further with continued exposure to triggers. Surgical intervention is the preferred treatment method.