Noncancerous Growths
Two kinds of noncancerous (benign) growths can develop on the conjunctiva--pinguecula and pterygium. They both are more common in older people and probably occur as a result of long-term ultraviolet light exposure. Doctors easily recognize these growths by their typical appearance. A pinguecula is a raised yellowish white growth next to, but not overlapping, the cornea. This growth is unsightly, but it generally does not cause any serious problem and need not be removed. A pterygium is a similar fleshy growth of the conjunctiva next to the cornea that spreads across the cornea. Most pterygia do not produce symptoms, but sometimes they cause irritation or distort the shape of the cornea, possibly causing a change in vision. Sometimes removal is appropriate to reduce irritation and to prevent changes in vision.
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