A pterygium on an 8 month old?

Posted by Amy F. on June 11, 1999 at 16:18:11
My 8 month old was diagnosed today with a pterygium on his right eye.  We live in Maryland, USA and he is RARELY outdoors.  When hs is outdoors it is early morning or late evening and he always wears a hat with a visor.  His sun exposure is very limited.  He was perscribed a steroid/antibiotic eye drop treatment for 11 days.  How did my son develop a pterygium?  I'm not able to determine a cause for this.  Could it be anything else?  Amy F.

Posted by HFHS M.D.-JL on June 11, 1999 at 16:46:26
I must say that I have never seen a pterygium in an 8 month old before.  As you are probably aware, these are usually seen in patients who have had a moderate amount of sun exposure.  It is certainly possible this could be a pterygium but I would be suspect of the diagnosis.  This could be a corneal scar, infection or inflammation (not infection) of the cornea.  These should respond to drops (except a scar).  A scar could be the result of some injury, even at birth.  If this does not clear, I would recommend an evaluation by a pediatric ophthalmologist or even a corneal specialist for a second opinion.  
This info was provided for educational purposes only.
HFHS M.D.-JL