pterygium in a ten year old

My ten year old has a pterygium.  I have taken him to a pediatric opthamologist, who has a large practice, and says he has never seen this in a child.  He sent me to a cornea specialist, who also said he has never seen it in a child.  My son is very uncomfortable and self-conscious.  We would like to have it removed, but are concerned with the risks and the chance of regrowth.  What to you recommend?  Thank you.

[Houman Vosoghi, MD]

I can't really make a recommendation online without an examination.  If it is affecting his vision in any way then it probably needs to be removed.  Your doctor may want to submit the tissue for pathology review given how young he is and how unusual it is to have a pterygium at that age.  If it is not affecting his vision, then you have to make a decision whether he would like to have surgery for cosmetic reasons or psychological reasons or irritation reasons.  All are justifiable but you have to have a long heart to heart with the cornea specialist.  In the meanwhile, your son should wear sunglasses to protect from further sun damage.

HV