Understanding Pinguecula: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Your eyes are crucial to your overall health and daily functioning. Pinguecula is a common eye condition that can affect vision and comfort.  

What is a pinguecula? 

A pinguecula is a yellowish, slightly raised bump that appears on the white part of the eye (the sclera). It typically occurs on the inner side of the eye, near the nose.  

Fortunately, this type of growth is benign. It is caused by the deposit of protein, fat, and calcium. While it’s generally harmless, a pinguecula can cause some irritation, discomfort, and cosmetic concerns. 

It is important to differentiate pingueculae from pterygia (surfer’s eye). Pingueculae remain in the conjunctiva on the white of your eye and don’t overlap with the cornea. Ptergia are similar growths but extend over the corneal surface and affect vision. 

Pinguecula causes 

A pinguecula typically forms as a result of environmental exposure and eye irritation.  

Ultraviolet light exposure, typically from the sun, is one of the primary causes of pinguecula. People who spend a lot of time outdoors without wearing protective sunglasses are at higher risk.  

UV radiation can damage the thin, transparent layer that covers the white part of your eye called the conjunctiva. Similarly, long-term exposure to wind, dust, and dry conditions can also irritate the eyes and contribute to developing pingueculae.  

Aside from environmental factors, age can also increase your chances of developing pingueculae. As we age, we experience degeneration of the ocular surface.

These changes to the tissues in your eyes may make them more susceptible to forming growths like pingueculae.  

Contact lens wearers and individuals who experience chronic eye irritation or dryness are also at an increased risk of developing pinguecula. Irritation from rubbing dry eyes or frequent exposure to harsh chemicals can contribute to the formation of these bumps. 

Symptoms of pinguecula

Pingueculae are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause symptoms.  

However, when symptoms do occur, they can include: 

• Visible bump: A yellow or white bump on the white part of the eye, usually near the cornea. 

• Eye redness: The area around the pinguecula may become red and inflamed, especially if the eye is exposed to irritants like dust or sunlight. You may notice an increase in blood vessels leading into the pinguecula.  

• Dryness or irritation: Many people with pinguecula experience a sensation of dryness, itching, or burning in the affected eye. 

• Foreign body sensation: The growth can create a feeling that something is in the eye, leading to discomfort and an urge to rub the eye. 

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult an eye care professional at AGEI. While a pinguecula is typically harmless, it’s essential to rule out other eye conditions that may require treatment. 

How is pinguecula diagnosed?

Diagnosing a pinguecula is relatively straightforward. During an eye exam, one of our ophthalmologists will use a slit-lamp microscope to examine the surface of your eye closely.

This allows them to observe any growths, evaluate their size, and determine whether they affect the cornea or other parts of the eye. 

In most cases, a pinguecula does not require further diagnostic tests. However, if the growth is large or causing significant symptoms, our eye care specialist may perform additional evaluations to ensure no underlying issues need attention. 

Pinguecula treatment options

Pingueculae are generally benign and do not always require treatment. However, if they become bothersome or cause discomfort, our doctors may prescribe one of the following treatments.  

Over-the-counter artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help reduce dryness and irritation for mild cases. These drops provide moisture to the eye, relieving symptoms associated with pinguecula, such as redness or a burning sensation.

But if the pinguecula is inflamed or causing significant discomfort, your eye doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops or steroid eye drops.  

In rare cases, surgical removal may be recommended when a pinguecula becomes very large, causes chronic irritation, or affects vision. The excision procedure is typically quick and performed under local anesthesia.

While pingueculae do not usually grow back after removal, wearing sunglasses and protecting the eyes from environmental irritants can reduce the risk of recurrence. 

Risks and complications of pinguecula 

While pinguecula is generally harmless, it’s important to be aware of potential complications.  

Pingueculitis is an inflammation of the pinguecula that can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort. It may occur if the eye is exposed to irritants or UV light or if the pinguecula becomes irritated from contact lens use.

Sometimes, a pinguecula may develop into a pterygium. Pterygia can affect vision and may require surgical intervention. 

Can pinguecula be prevented?  

Preventing pinguecula involves protecting your eyes from environmental factors and UV light. Wearing sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection is one of the best ways to prevent pinguecula, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat while in the sun can also reduce exposure.   

If you work in a dusty or windy environment, wearing protective goggles can help shield your eyes from irritants that may contribute to forming pinguecula.

For those who experience dryness, regular use of artificial tears can also help keep the eyes lubricated and reduce the risk of irritation. 

Why choose AGEI for your eye health?  

Assil Gaur Eye Institute remains laser-focused on our founding mission of providing exceptional health care in a compassionate and caring environment. We continue to be driven to advance the field of ophthalmology and give back to our community every day. Our specialists are trained to diagnose and manage a wide range of eye conditions, including pinguecula, ensuring that you receive the highest level of eye care.  

Please call (866) 945-2745 or make an appointment online.  

We are conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area at locations in or near Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles. 

Pinguecula FAQs 

Is pinguecula an eye disease?  
Pinguecula is not a disease but a condition that refers to the noncancerous growth of the conjunctiva.  

Does pinguecula cause blurry vision? 
For most people, a pinguecula does not affect vision. However, some severe cases can disrupt how tears are spread over the tear film, causing dryness and redness.   

Will a pinguecula go away on its own?  
Pinguecula won’t go away independently; surgery is the only way to remove it. However, most pingueculae don’t need treatment unless they’re causing discomfort or cosmetic concerns.  

Can a pinguecula turn into a pterygium?  
Yes, a pinguecula can grow into a pterygium. The main difference between pinguecula vs pterygium is that a pterygium can grow onto the cornea, potentially causing vision problems.  

Sources 

What is a Pinguecula and a pterygium (Surfer’s eye)? American Academy of Ophthalmology
https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/pinguecula-pterygium  

“Pterygium.” AOA.org
www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/pterygium?sso=y . Accessed 22 Oct. 2024.