pinguecula

This is a white or yellow “bump” seen on the white part of the eye.  The entire eye is covered by a very thin layer of skin called the conjunctiva. This conjunctiva is very delicate and thin. In fact, you can see red blood vessels coursing through this skin by looking in the mirror.  The conjunctiva protects the eye but can become irritated by constant wind and sun exposure. When the skin is irritated, it tends to thicken and become discolored (like a callus on the hand or foot). This creates a discolored bump on the eye. A pinguecula can become irritated and make the eye sensitive. Treatment is usually with artificial tears and sparing use of mild steroid. On rare occasions, surgical excision can be considered, but most pinguecula are mild and only a minor cosmetic nuisance