What is a common complication associated with untreated pterygium?

Untreated pterygium can lead to several complications, one of which includes corneal abrasion. A pterygium is a growth of fleshy tissue on the conjunctiva that can extend onto the cornea. As it grows, it may cause mechanical irritation to the corneal surface, leading to abrasions, especially if the pterygium encroaches significantly onto the cornea. This can result in discomfort and potential long-term issues related to vision.

The development of a corneal abrasion is often due to a combination of the physical presence of the pterygium irritating the eye and contributing to changes in the corneal surface. This condition can compromise the cornea's integrity, making the eye more susceptible to infections and further complications.

In considering the other options, severe eye pain, vision impairment, and itching and irritation can occur with pterygium, but they typically stem from associated conditions rather than being direct complications of the growth itself. While a pterygium can result in discomfort and vision changes, the specific concern of corneal abrasions highlights a physical consequence of the lesion's presence on the eye, making it a significant complication in the context of untreated pterygium.