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Pterygium, solar ultraviolet radiation and myopia
A Spierer1, M Rosner, M Belkin
1Goldschleger Eye Research Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hoshomer, Israel.
Metabolic, Pediatric, and Systemic Ophthalmology (New York, N.Y. : 1985)
|January 1, 1985
Summary
This study found fewer myopia cases in pterygium patients, suggesting UV radiation may cause pterygium. Myopic correction may offer some UV protection.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ocular surface disease
- Refractive error
Background:
- Pterygium is a common ocular surface condition.
- The etiology of pterygium is multifactorial, with solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation implicated.
- Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a prevalent refractive error.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of myopia in patients with pterygium.
- To explore the potential protective effect of myopic correction against pterygium development.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study design.
- Analysis of 93 patients who underwent pterygium excision.
- Comparison of myopia prevalence with the general population.
Main Results:
- A lower prevalence of myopia was observed in the pterygium patient cohort compared to the general population.
- This finding suggests a potential inverse relationship between myopia and pterygium.
Conclusions:
- The results support the hypothesis that solar UV radiation contributes to pterygium formation.
- Continuous wear of myopic correction may provide a degree of protection against harmful UV radiation, potentially reducing pterygium risk.