EDEN OSOLOBRUGHWEORUME BLESSED

A pterygium is a wing shaped hyperplastic and fibrovascular growth of the conjunctiva encroaching onto the cornea. Cell apoptosis and cell proliferation processes are strongly associated with the development and progression of pterygium. Esthetic concerns, irregular astigmatism, decreased vision and blindness are important issues associated with this condition if left untreated. Commercial motorcyclists in Benin City, Nigeria, have been found to have a high prevalence of pterygium. There has been a dearth of information about pterygium prevalence among commercial bus drivers in Benin Metropolis. This research paper seeks to highlight the prevalence, severity and pattern distribution of pterygium among this group. A total of one hundred and twenty two (122) commercial bus drivers with one to five years driving experience in Benin Metropolis was included in the study. A questionnaire which was divided into two parts A and B was administered to the subjects. Visual acuity was measured using the Snellen's literate and Tumbling letter "E' chart under standard testing conditions in order to determine the level of vision and for legal purposes. Penlight was used for external examination to determine the position and extent of pterygium