ATYPICAL PINGUECULA

The purpose of this abstract is to report and document an unusual case of atypical pinguecula that developed on the cornea, necessitating surgical exploration and histological analysis for an accurate diagnosis. Additionally, it aims to highlight the typical characteristics and management of pinguecula, the potential association with pterygium, and the ongoing scientific debate regarding the relationship between these ocular conditions. This abstract serves to contribute to the understanding of rare ocular presentations and their histopathological confirmation, thereby enhancing the knowledge and diagnostic approach in ophthalmology.

Pinguecula, a benign conjunctival condition, is characterized by yellowish lesions near the cornea. Associated with age, sunlight exposure, and environmental factors, it often raises aesthetic concerns and mild symptoms like itching. It is typically managed with artificial tears or, in some cases, surgical excision for cosmetic reasons. In this context, we present an unusual case of pinguecula located on the cornea, necessitating surgical exploration and in-depth histological analysis.

We report the case of a 62-year-old patient experiencing the gradual development of a nasal pterygium in the right eye that invades the cornea and presents as a smooth, whitish-yellow swelling. Given the atypical location and appearance of this lesion on the nasal cornea, surgical excision of the entire lesion was performed to establish a histological diagnosis.

The histopathological analysis supported the diagnosis of pinguecula, confirming the nature of the lesion as consistent with this benign ocular condition. This result provided valuable insights into the nature of atypical pinguecula and its histological characteristics when it occurs on the cornea.

Pinguecula represents a benign ocular lesion, characterized by the presence of a grayish-white to yellowish elevated circular mass on the bulbar conjunctiva. Typically, it manifests within the interpalpebral conjunctiva, primarily occupying the para-limbal regions at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions. Notably, it exhibits a proclivity for the nasal aspect of the bulbar conjunctiva.

This lesion is suggested as a potential precursor to the development of pterygium, a condition in which abnormal tissue growth encroaches upon the corneal region. Nonetheless, the relationship between pinguecula and pterygium remains the subject of controversy, and the progression from pinguecula to pterygium has raised questions within the scientific community.