A pingueclum is a slightly raised waxy yellow or whitish bump on the white of the eye usually located to the right or left of the clear cornea. This “growth” is not a tumor but it is often cosmetically bothersome to the individual.

Pingueculum are usually caused by chronic exposure to irritants in the air, dry eye syndrome, or exposure to sunlight (UV radiation). Unless the pingueculum becomes red and inflamed, and unless it does not start to grow onto the cornea, the clear window of the eye, no treatment is necessary. However, it is possible to minimize the environmental factors such as wearing glasses that protect from UV light and avoiding places where there are a lot of irritants in the air. Taking artificial tears may also lessen the amount of irritants that get in the eye by flushing them out. These preventative measures may decrease the rate of growth of pingueculum.

Pterygium:

A ptrerygium is a flesh or whitish colored growth that grows over the cornea, the clear window of the eye. A pterygium is not a tumor, however tumors that look similar to a pterygium may occur on the cornea. This is not a normal process and can lead to significant decreased vision if not treated in time. The cause of pterygium is not exactly known, but exposure to UV light, irritants in the environment, and a dry, dirty, dusty workplace may all contribute to pterygium.