What is a common complication associated with untreated pterygium?

When considering the complications associated with untreated pterygium, vision impairment stands out as a significant concern. Pterygium is a growth of fleshy tissue that can develop on the conjunctiva and, in some cases, extend onto the cornea. As this growth progresses, it can lead to distortion or hence, obfuscation of the visual axis, affecting clarity of vision.

While corneal abrasions can occur as a result of irritation from the pterygium or if it becomes unstable and causes damage to the cornea, the more chronic and consequential complication is impaired vision. Untreated pterygium may continue to grow, leading to astigmatism or even inducing a higher risk for other ocular conditions, which ultimately contributes to vision loss.

Itching and irritation, while bothersome and common to pterygium, generally do not classify as severe complications compared to the potential for long-term vision impairment. Additionally, severe eye pain can occur, but this is typically not a common complication unless the condition advances to a state that causes damage to surrounding tissues.

By understanding that vision impairment can result from the progressive nature of pterygium, it highlights the importance of monitoring and potentially treating this ocular condition to prevent more serious complications