Eye Growths: Are They Serious or Congenital?

Q: Eye Growths: Are They Serious or Congenital?

Hello： This may be a subconjunctival nodule, commonly referred to as a "conjunctival cyst," which is often found in the upper or lower conjunctiva or on the inner or outer sides. <br>Some individuals are born with them, while others may develop them due to eye irritation or infec

There are polyps in the eyeball?

There is a growth resembling a polyp in the lower left corner of my left eye, near the side of my ear.
As far as I can remember, it has always been there since I was alive.
It currently does not cover the pupil but is attached to an area similar to the outer corner of the eye or the eye socket (the skin area towards the brain, but not attached to the eyelid).
It feels like it hasn't grown larger, but recently, out of curiosity, I looked at it more closely and it seems quite large.
I usually don't pay attention to it, so I'm not sure.
Could this be a congenital condition? Is this issue serious or rare? Should I seek medical evaluation? Thank you.

Chen Ting-wei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/06

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: This may be a subconjunctival nodule, commonly referred to as a "conjunctival cyst," which is often found in the upper or lower conjunctiva or on the inner or outer sides.
Some individuals are born with them, while others may develop them due to eye irritation or infection.
Conjunctival cysts typically do not require treatment; if they do not affect vision or cause discomfort, they can be left untreated, but regular monitoring is recommended.
If the conjunctival cyst enlarges or causes discomfort, medical treatment may be necessary.

Reply Date: 2023/03/06

More Info

When it comes to eye growths, particularly those that resemble a polyp or similar structure near the lower corner of the eye, it is essential to understand the nature of such growths and their potential implications. Based on your description, it seems that this growth has been present for a long time and has not obstructed your vision, which is a positive sign. However, there are several factors to consider regarding whether this growth is congenital, serious, or warrants further medical evaluation.

Congenital vs. Acquired Growths
1. Congenital Growths: These are growths that are present at birth or develop shortly thereafter. They can be benign and may include conditions such as dermoids, which are cyst-like structures that can contain hair, skin, and other tissues. If the growth has been present since you can remember and has not changed significantly in size or appearance, it is possible that it is congenital.

2. Acquired Growths: These can develop later in life due to various factors, including environmental influences, irritation, or other underlying health conditions. If the growth has changed in size or appearance recently, it may be worth investigating further.

Seriousness and Rarity
Most benign growths around the eye, such as cysts or small tumors, are not serious and do not pose a significant health risk. However, some growths can be indicative of underlying conditions that may require treatment. For instance, if the growth is causing discomfort, affecting vision, or showing signs of infection (such as redness, swelling, or discharge), it is crucial to seek medical attention.

While many eye growths are common and not serious, some can be rare or associated with more severe conditions. For example, certain types of tumors, though rare, can occur in the eye area and may require intervention. Therefore, while the growth you describe may not seem serious, it is essential to have a healthcare professional evaluate it to rule out any potential issues.

When to Seek Medical Attention
Given your description of the growth and your curiosity about its nature, it would be prudent to consult an eye care professional. Here are some reasons to seek medical evaluation:
- Change in Size or Appearance: If you notice any changes in the growth, such as an increase in size or a change in color, it is essential to have it checked.

- Discomfort or Symptoms: If the growth begins to cause discomfort, irritation, or affects your vision, it is crucial to seek medical advice.

- Peace of Mind: If you are concerned about the growth, a professional evaluation can provide reassurance and clarity regarding its nature.

Conclusion
In summary, while the growth you describe may be congenital and benign, it is always best to err on the side of caution. An eye care professional can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies if necessary, to determine the nature of the growth and whether any treatment is required. Regular eye check-ups are vital for maintaining eye health, especially if you notice any changes or have concerns about your vision. Don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for a professional assessment.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Sunset Eye: Congenital Glaucoma in Children

My son has congenital glaucoma. Will this lead to the appearance of sunset eye? Thank you, doctor.

Dr. Lan Yuwen reply Ophthalmology
Hello: Regarding your question, the answers are as follows: 1. The downward rotation of the eyeball, with more exposure of the upper sclera, is commonly referred to as "sunset eye." 2. In children with hydrocephalus, this condition occurs due to the obstruction of cereb...

Understanding Corneal Abnormalities in Children: A Mother's Concern

Hello Doctor: An ophthalmologist recently discovered small bubble-like spots on my 8-year-old son's left cornea. During an examination of the endothelial cell count, it was found that there are approximately 2300 cells in the left eye and about 3200 cells in the right eye. T...

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology
Hello: The number of corneal endothelial cells in newborns is approximately 4,000 per square millimeter, but this number decreases with age. In general, adults under 40 years old should have a normal corneal endothelial cell count ranging from 2,900 to 3,000. However, many indivi...

Understanding Pterygium: Causes and Treatment Options Explained

The white part of the eye is growing flesh and slowly extending towards the eyeball. I just had a physical examination, and my liver function is normal. What could be the cause of this?

Dr. Zhang Yanrui reply Ophthalmology
The development of eye wings may have various causes, such as hormonal and metabolic factors. It is advisable to undergo a thorough examination at a hospital to determine the exact reason. Thank you.

Understanding Myopia: Differences, Treatments, and Eye Care Solutions

Is the difference between congenital myopia and acquired myopia related to the degree of refractive error? I've heard that orthokeratology lenses have great results, but why is the effect not ideal for my nephew? What could be the main reason? I saw on your website about mag...

Dr. Huang Bozhen reply Ophthalmology
Congenital myopia is closely related to genetics, meaning that patients can have severe myopia (around 500 to 600 diopters) at a very young age (five or six years old), often accompanied by amblyopia. For instance, a farmer who rarely reads may have myopia exceeding 1000 diopters...