Epithelial Ingrowth Following Pterygium Excision With Conjunctival Autograft: A Rare Complication

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Ocular Complications

Background:

• Pterygium is a prevalent ocular condition involving conjunctival growth onto the cornea.
• Ocular surgery, including pterygium excision with conjunctival autograft, carries risks of complications.
• Epithelial ingrowth (EI) is a rare but significant complication characterized by epithelial cell proliferation within the cornea or anterior chamber.

Observation:

• A case of epithelial ingrowth (EI) is presented in a male patient post-pterygium surgery with conjunctival autograft.
• Clinical examination revealed a subtle, wave-like, grey-white band under the corneal epithelium in the inferior-temporal quadrant.
• The observed EI was located peripherally, not affecting the visual axis or corneal center.

Findings:

• The diagnosis of epithelial ingrowth was confirmed through clinical assessment and anterior optical coherence tomography (OCT).
• This represents the second reported case of epithelial ingrowth occurring after pterygium surgery.
• The findings underscore the potential for EI even with standard surgical techniques for pterygium.

Implications:

• This case adds to the limited literature on epithelial ingrowth following pterygium surgery.
• Awareness of this rare complication is crucial for ophthalmologists managing pterygium patients.
• Further investigation may be warranted to understand the specific risk factors and optimal management strategies for EI after pterygium excision.