pterygium (redirected from pterygiums)

pterygium /pte·ryg·i·um/ (tĕ-rij´e-um) pl. ptery´gia   [Gr.] a winglike structure, especially an abnormal triangular fold of membrane in the interpalpebral fissure, extending from the conjunctiva to the cornea.

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pterygium col´li  webbed neck; a thick skin fold on the side of the neck from the mastoid region to the acromion.

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pte·ryg·i·um (t-rj-m)

n. pl. pte·ryg·i·ums or pte·ryg·i·a (--)

An abnormal mass of tissue arising from the conjunctiva of the inner corner of the eye that obstructs vision by growing over the cornea.

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pte·rygi·al adj.

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pterygium

[tərij′ē·əm]

Etymology: Gk, pterygion, wing

a thick triangular patch of pale hypertrophied tissue that extends medially from the nasal border of the cornea to the inner canthus of the eye.

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pterygium

a winglike structure, especially an abnormal triangular fold of membrane in the interpalpebral fissure, extending from the conjunctiva to the cornea.

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pterygium 

A triangular fold of bulbar conjunctiva, in the interpalpebral fissure, with its apex advancing progressively towards the cornea, usually from the nasal side. A pinguecula often precedes its development. It is considered to be due to a degenerative process caused by recurrent dryness or irritation from wind and dust or prolonged exposure to sunlight, especially UV. It becomes more prevalent with age. Symptoms are usually absent unless the pterygium encroaches on the cornea and vision may then be affected: surgical intervention is then necessary. Some pterygia tend to recur after excision. UV absorptive lenses may help decrease the incidence (Fig. P21). See dellen; dyskeratosis; Stocker's line; pseudopterygium.

Fig. P21 Advanced case of pterygium

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pterygium

Ophthalmology A condition of older adults, characterized by a fleshy triangular fold of tissue that grows from the conjunctiva, encroaching on the cornea; it is clinically insignificant unless it affects the vision; it is usually on the nasal side, and may be bilateral Risk factors Exposure to sun and UV light, dust, sand, wind