Pre-op MMC effective for recurrent pterygium

Subconjunctival mitomycin C (MMC) injections followed by bare sclera pterygium excision is successful and cost-effective for the treatment of recurrent pterygium associated with symblepharon, according to a recently published case study

Dr Isyaku Mohammed et al., Department of Ophthalmology, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Kano, Nigeria, conducted a case report on a 31-year-old male with recurrent pterygium.

Low-dose (0.02%) MMC was administered to the patient one month before bare sclera excision of multicurrent pterygium. At the same time, symblepharolysis was performed including further application of MMC intraoperatively to the upper conjunctival fornix.

Overall, MMC injections followed by excision are cost-effective and easily performed. It is also safe and effective. There was no recurrence or complications recorded during the one-year follow-up, apart from a Tenon granuloma that was excised. The injections are safe and effective when combined with intraoperative application to the conjunctival fornix.

The abstract can be found in the latest edition of the journal Clinical Ophthalmology.