A pterygium is an abnormal growth of the conjunctiva (the skin of the eye.) A pterygium is benign (not cancer), but if not removed, it can continue to grow and cover the cornea and limit vision.
Pterygiums are caused by sun exposure, and are more common in people who have lived in tropical climates, or who have history of prolonged sun exposure. Most often a pterygium is located on the part of the conjunctiva closer to the nose, and can appear as a yellow-red “bump” on the eye.
