03/12/2019
No, a pterygium is a benign growth and usually harmless. However, in some cases it may harbour cancerous cells.
It is not known exactly what causes a pterygium to develop, but dusty, sandy and sunny environments (with high UV exposure) are contributing factors.
Payment plans can be used to access consultations, treatment and surgery at all Vision Eye Institute Clinics and Vision Hospital Group day surgeries.
Vision Eye Institute patients can access a plan to suit their needs through one of the following options.*
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American Academy of Ophthalmology: Pinguecula and pterygium
Chui et al. Ophthalmic pterygium: a stem cell disorder with premalignant features. Am J Pathol. 2011 Feb; 178(2): 817–827. doi: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2010.10.037 ↩︎
The information on this page is general in nature. All medical and surgical procedures have potential benefits and risks. Consult your ophthalmologist for specific medical advice.
Date last reviewed: 2022-01-25 | Date for next review: 2024-01-25
