A pinguecula (pronounced, ping-gweh-kyuh-luh) is a yellowish growth on the conjunctiva of your eye. Your conjunctiva is the clear membrane that covers the whites of your eyes.
Pinguecula usually forms on the inside of the whites of your eyes, near your nose. But it can also appear on the other side of your eye too.
Pinguecula are deposits of protein, fat or calcium or a combination of the three. The shape may be small, round or triangular and barely visible. Over the years, it can grow in size.
Is pinguecula serious?
Pinguecula is a harmless growth that is harmless. It’s not cancer. In most cases, it usually causes no pain or discomfort. In most people, a pinguecula usually doesn’t need to be removed or treated.
Who gets pinguecula?
Pinguecula can happen to anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors in the sun without eye protection. The chance of pinguecula increases with age. It is most often seen in middle-aged and older adults.
How common are pingueculae?
Pinguecula is a common condition. Nearly everyone has some sign of pinguecula by their 80s.
Can pinguecula interfere with my vision?
Pinguecula usually develops outside of your central vision. Not impossible, but they usually don’t grow large enough to block your vision. Having a pinguecula will not cause blindness.
Does the pinguecula go away on its own?
Pinguecula does not go away on its own. The only way to get rid of it is by surgery.
Pinguecula vs Pterygium
Both are growths on the conjunctiva of your eye. Exposure to sun, wind or dust are considered common links.
- Pinguecula is a yellowish or white growth. It remains on the conjunctiva and does not overlap the cornea. It usually causes no symptoms or needs to be removed.
- Pterygium is a fleshy growth that has many blood vessels in it. These may stay small or they may grow and spread into the cornea, which can affect your vision. For this reason, it is considered more serious than pinguecula.