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Distinct Morphological Progression Patterns in Primary Versus Recurrent Pterygium: Vertical Attenuation Versus Deep
Young In Yun1, Dong Hee Ha2, Seung Hyeun Lee3
1Department of Ophthalmology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Translational Vision Science & Technology
|May 8, 2026
Summary
Primary pterygium shows vertical attenuation, while recurrent pterygium invades deeper into the stroma. Quantitative imaging reveals distinct progression patterns for tailored surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Disease
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Pterygium is a common eye condition.
- Understanding progression patterns is crucial for treatment.
- Primary and recurrent pterygia may differ in their growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare progression patterns between primary and recurrent pterygium.
- Utilize quantitative imaging for detailed analysis.
- Identify distinct structural changes in pterygium recurrence.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of 114 primary and 24 recurrent pterygia.
- Assessed clinical severity (T grade, V grade, LPS).
- Measured morphological parameters (HIL, height, thickness, RCT/CCT ratio) using OCT.
Main Results:
- Recurrent pterygia had higher clinical severity and LPS.
- Adjusted for HIL, recurrent cases had lower height and thickness.
- Primary pterygia showed "vertical attenuation"; recurrent pterygia showed "deep stromal invasion".
Conclusions:
- Primary pterygium progression is associated with vertical attenuation.
- Recurrent pterygium progression is characterized by deep stromal invasion.
- Distinct structural patterns observed in primary vs. recurrent pterygia.

