Figure 2.

Typical histological features of pterygia. A: In the advancing head of a pterygium, conjunctival-like epithelium (Conj) merges abruptly into corneal epithelium (Corn). The underlying Bowman's layer (arrows) is fragmented and precedes a fibrovascular stroma (asterisk). B, C: Goblet cell hyperplasia is apparent in pterygium (B), compared with donor-matched conjunctiva (C). Note the thickness of the epithelial layer (double-headed arrows in B and C). D: Prominent central feeder vessel; inset shows dilated subepithelial vessels. E: Elastotic changes (double asterisk) in pterygium stroma. F: Inflammatory infiltrates in the epithelium. G: Stromal vessels loaded with polymorphonuclear leukocytes. All sections were stained with H&E. Original magnification: ×200 (A and D); ×400 (B, C, D inset, and E); ×1000 oil emersion (F and G).