Pterygium Referral Guide

For General Practitioners & Optometrists

Clinical Overview:

Pterygium affects ~10% of Queensland’s population. Early UV exposure (first decade) represents the strongest risk factor, with Queenslanders facing 40x higher incidence than southern populations.

Referral Criteria:

Immediate referral indicated:

Visual axis involvement or threat
Progressive corneal encroachment
Significant vision impairment
Recurrent pterygium post-surgery

Routine referral appropriate:

Persistent symptoms despite conservative management
Patient cosmetic concerns
Diagnostic uncertainty (vs pinguecula, conjunctival lesions)
Annual monitoring of established pterygium

Key Clinical Features:

Symptoms: Irritation, dryness, photophobia, foreign body sensation
Progression factors: UV exposure, dry environments, occupational irritants
Vision impact: Corneal distortion, obstruction of visual axis (advanced cases)

Conservative Management Options:

Preservative-free lubricants for symptom control
UV protection counselling
Environmental modification advice
Annual monitoring for stable, asymptomatic cases

Surgical Expertise in the P.E.R.F.E.C.T. Technique:

Dr Pappalardo trained directly with Professor Lawrence Hirst (technique pioneer). P.E.R.F.E.C.T. offers:

0.001% recurrence rates (vs 15-40% traditional methods)
Attention to cosmetic outcomes
Extended conjunctival transplant approach

Making a Referral – Essential information:

Duration and progression of symptoms
Previous treatment attempts
Occupational/recreational UV exposure history
Current medications and allergies

Referral pathways:

Urgent: Phone (07) 3144 1655

Routine: Online referral via Medical Objects or Oculo

Expected timeframes:

Routine appointments: 2-3 weeks
Urgent cases: Within 48 hours
Surgery scheduling: 1-2 months post-consultation

Patient Preparation

Advise patients to bring:

Medicare card and private health details
Current medication list
Previous eye examination records

Contact Dr Juanita Pappalardo's Practice

Valley Eye Specialists
Phone: (07) 3144 1655 | Fax: (07) 3144 1656
info@valleyeye.com.au

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