The fleshy part inside the corner of the eye has become enlarged and red.

Feb 27, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Cui Xin

Introduction

Enlargement and redness of the fleshy tissue at the inner corner of the eye are caused by pterygium, which results from both bodily and environmental factors. If the pterygium invades the cornea significantly or is extensive, professional medical intervention is required, such as simple pterygium excision or pterygium excision with pedicle conjunctival flap grafting. For smaller or thinner lesions, cryotherapy may be an option. Pharmacological treatment can serve as adjunctive therapy; commonly used medications include indomethacin tablets and misoprostol tablets.

The fleshy tissue at the inner corner of the eye becoming enlarged and red is usually caused by pterygium due to bodily or environmental factors. The most effective treatment is often surgery, but for patients unsuitable for surgery, cryotherapy or medication may also be used to improve the condition.

I. Causes

1. Bodily Factors

This may result from genetic predisposition, severe nutritional deficiencies, insufficient tear production, or other reasons leading to thickening and proliferation of the conjunctiva and subconjunctival tissues at the palpebral fissure.

2. Environmental Factors

Excessive exposure to sunlight, or environments with high levels of pollen, windblown sand, or irritating smoke and dust, may irritate the conjunctival blood vessels or epithelial cells, causing tissue overgrowth.

II. Treatment

1. Surgical Treatment

If the pterygium has grown into the cornea or is extensive, affecting appearance or vision, surgical intervention by a qualified ophthalmologist is typically required. Procedures such as simple pterygium excision or pterygium excision with pedicle conjunctival flap grafting can separate the pterygium from the bulbar conjunctiva, improving both appearance and visual function.

2. Cryotherapy

For smaller or thinner pterygia, cryotherapy may be applied to inhibit abnormal blood vessel growth and promote recovery.

3. Medication

Medications are primarily used to relieve ocular discomfort and do not suppress pterygium growth. They are generally used as adjunctive therapy before or after surgery. Commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs include indomethacin tablets, misoprostol tablets, and diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, which help reduce inflammation and improve symptoms.

Earlier treatment generally leads to better outcomes; however, it is recommended to seek evaluation and care from a professional ophthalmologist at a reputable medical facility.

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