What a pinguecula is
The conjunctiva is the thin transparent membrane covering the white of the eye. Chronic exposure to ultraviolet light and drying wind changes its collagen and deposits protein and fat in a localized patch, which appears as a yellowish or cream colored bump, slightly raised, usually at the three or nine o'clock position next to the cornea. It is not a growth in the sense of a tumor and it does not threaten sight.
Pinguecula versus pterygium
Both are caused by the same exposure and both sit in the same place, and some pingueculae go on to become pterygia. The difference is the cornea. A pinguecula stays on the white of the eye. A pterygium is a wedge of fleshy, vascular tissue that grows across the boundary onto the cornea, where it can distort vision and eventually needs surgery. If a pinguecula begins to extend onto the cornea, it is examined and followed as a pterygium.
Symptoms
Usually none beyond the appearance. Because it is raised, a pinguecula can disturb the tear film and cause dryness and a foreign body sensation, and it can become inflamed, red and irritated (a state called pingueculitis), particularly in sun, wind or smoke. Contact lens wearers may find a large pinguecula interferes with lens comfort.
Treatment
Sunglasses with UV protection and a hat outdoors slow further change and are the only preventive measure. Lubricating drops relieve dryness. An inflamed pinguecula settles with a short course of mild anti-inflammatory drops from your eye doctor. Surgical removal is rarely needed and is considered only for a pinguecula that is repeatedly inflamed despite treatment, that prevents contact lens wear, or that the patient finds cosmetically unacceptable; it is a minor procedure with a small chance of recurrence.
Is this right for your eyes?
Nothing on this page is a diagnosis. Whether this is what is affecting your vision is decided by a full examination at one of our 4 offices: Pasadena, Huntington Beach, Woodland Hills and Beverly Hills.
About this content: This page was written with the assistance of AI tools and reviewed for medical accuracy by Dr. Bavand Youssefzadeh, DO. It is general information, not medical advice, and does not replace an eye examination. Individual results vary. Read our medical disclaimer.
