Pinguecula

Definition: A common, non-cancerous growth of the mucous membrane lining the eyeball and underside of the eyelids (conjunctiva). A pinguecula appears as a small, yellowish lesion and is derived from the conjunctiva. It can appear on either side of the cornea, but usually appears on the nasal side. It may increase in size over many years. Its cause is unknown, but chronic sunlight exposure and eye irritation may contribute to its development.