Pterygium treatment includes which of the following?

Pterygium treatment includes which of the following?

• A. Monitor, UV protection, PFATs and ointments if dellen, Loteprednol 0.5% qid if inflamed, refer for removal if encroaching on the visual axis
• B. Immediate scleral buckle
• C. Antibiotics only
• D. Laser therapy as first-line treatment

Answer: (A)

Pterygium management centers on reducing surface irritation, limiting UV-driven progression, and reserving surgery for vision-threatening cases. If the lesion is stable and not affecting vision, careful observation is appropriate. Reducing UV exposure with sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats helps slow growth, since UV light is a major driver of pterygium development. Keeping the ocular surface well lubricated with preservative-free artificial tears (PFATs) supports tear film stability and comfort, which can lessen symptoms and surface irregularities. If there is thinning at the edge (dellen), greasy or petrolatum-containing ointment can help stabilize the tear film and protect the cornea as it heals. When inflammation is present, a short course of a topical corticosteroid like Loteprednol 0.5% four times daily can reduce redness and vascularity; this should be used for a limited period with monitoring for side effects. Importantly, removal is considered when the pterygium encroaches on the visual axis or causes significant visual disturbance or astigmatism, in which case referral for surgical excision is appropriate. Immediate scleral buckling targets retinal issues, not pterygium. Antibiotics alone do not address the fibroepithelial growth, and laser therapy is not typically first-line for pterygium management.

Pterygium management centers on reducing surface irritation, limiting UV-driven progression, and reserving surgery for vision-threatening cases. If the lesion is stable and not affecting vision, careful observation is appropriate. Reducing UV exposure with sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats helps slow growth, since UV light is a major driver of pterygium development. Keeping the ocular surface well lubricated with preservative-free artificial tears (PFATs) supports tear film stability and comfort, which can lessen symptoms and surface irregularities. If there is thinning at the edge (dellen), greasy or petrolatum-containing ointment can help stabilize the tear film and protect the cornea as it heals. When inflammation is present, a short course of a topical corticosteroid like Loteprednol 0.5% four times daily can reduce redness and vascularity; this should be used for a limited period with monitoring for side effects. Importantly, removal is considered when the pterygium encroaches on the visual axis or causes significant visual disturbance or astigmatism, in which case referral for surgical excision is appropriate.

Immediate scleral buckling targets retinal issues, not pterygium. Antibiotics alone do not address the fibroepithelial growth, and laser therapy is not typically first-line for pterygium management.