Pinguecula

ConditionSurface

A yellowish bump on the white of the eye

Overview

A pinguecula is a small, raised, yellowish deposit on the conjunctiva, usually on the side of the eye nearest the nose. It is made up of degenerated collagen and elastic tissue and is strongly associated with ultraviolet light exposure, wind, and dust, so it is common in people who spend a lot of time outdoors and with increasing age. It is benign and often causes no symptoms, though it can become inflamed, a condition called pingueculitis. Unlike a pterygium, a pinguecula does not grow onto the cornea, although a pterygium can develop from one.

Related Topics