[2] It appears to be partly related to long term exposure to UV light and dust.

[8] Symptoms of pterygium include persistent redness,[9] inflammation,[10] foreign body sensation, tearing, dry and itchy eyes.

The use of standard contact lenses can become uncomfortable or even impossible although custom shaping may improve the fit to some extent.

Pterygium in the conjunctiva is characterized by elastotic degeneration of collagen (actinic elastosis[12]) and fibrovascular proliferation.

[9] Some research also suggests a genetic predisposition due to an expression of vimentin, which indicates cellular migration by the keratoblasts embryological development, which are the cells that give rise to the layers of the cornea.

[13] These cells also exhibit an increased P53 expression likely due to a deficit in the tumor suppressor gene.

These indications give the impression of a migrating limbus because the cellular origin of the pterygium is actually initiated by the limbal epithelium.

[18] As it is associated with excessive sun[19] or wind exposure, wearing protective sunglasses with side shields and/or wide brimmed hats and using artificial tears throughout the day may help prevent their formation or stop further growth.

Many of those who are at greatest risk of pterygium from work or play sun exposure do not understand the importance of protection.

[22] A Cochrane review found conjunctival autograft surgery was less likely to have reoccurrence of the pterygium at 6 months compared to amniotic membrane transplant.

[24] Conjunctival auto-grafting is a surgical technique that is an effective and safe procedure for pterygium removal.

Auto-grafting covers the bare sclera with conjunctival tissue that is surgically removed from an area of healthy conjunctiva.