Name of the Condition

• Peripheral Pterygium, Progressive, Bilateral
• Commonly referred to as "pterygium" or "surfer's eye."

Summary

Peripheral pterygium is a condition characterized by the growth of benign, wing-shaped conjunctival tissue over the cornea, often occurring in both eyes (bilateral) and progressively worsening over time.

Causes

• Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.
• Environmental factors such as wind, dust, and dry climates.
• Irritation or inflammation can contribute to the development and progression of this condition.

Risk Factors

• Prolonged exposure to sunlight without eye protection.
• Living in sunny, dusty, or wind-prone environments.
• Having light-colored eyes may increase susceptibility.

Symptoms

• Redness and irritation in the eyes.
• A visible growth on the conjunctiva, usually on the side closest to the nose.
• Itching, burning, or a gritty feeling in the eyes.
• Possible vision impairment if the growth extends over the cornea.

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive eye examination by an ophthalmologist.
• Slit-lamp examination to assess the size and extent of the pterygium.

Treatment Options

• Use of artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to alleviate symptoms.
• Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce redness and irritation.
• Surgical removal may be recommended if the pterygium affects vision or causes significant discomfort.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Early detection and treatment can prevent complications.
• Regular eye examinations are important to monitor progression and prevent recurrence after treatment.

Complications

• Potential scarring or distortion of the cornea, leading to astigmatism.
• Vision impairment if left untreated, due to the growth encroaching on the visual axis.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Wearing UV-protective sunglasses and hats to minimize UV exposure.
• Avoiding environments with excessive dust and wind, or using protective eyewear when necessary.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Noticeable growth on the eye surface or persistent irritation and redness.
• Any significant changes in vision or discomfort despite over-the-counter treatments.

Additional Resources

• The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) - AAO.org
• National Eye Institute - NEI.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure bilateral nature of the condition is noted (use of "bilateral" code).
• Accurately differentiate between pterygium and other similar eye conditions to avoid miscoding.