What is the term for a raised, wedge-shaped growth of the conjunctiva that extends onto the cornea?

A pterygium is a specific type of growth characterized by a raised, wedge-shaped appearance of the conjunctiva that extends onto the cornea. It typically develops as a result of UV light exposure and can lead to discomfort, irritation, and vision problems if it grows significantly. The wedge shape is indicative of how the tissue expands, growing from the conjunctiva towards the center of the cornea.

In contrast, ocular lumps can refer to a variety of benign or malignant growths but do not specifically describe the wedge-shaped nature or the particular location on the eye that pterygium does. The term 'pyogenic' is associated with infections that produce pus, while 'granuloma lipomas' is related to types of benign tumors that do not resemble the pterygium. Therefore, the term pterygium is specific and accurate for identifying this unique ocular condition.