What is a yellow, fleshy conjunctival mass called?

A yellow, fleshy conjunctival mass is referred to as a pinguecula. This is a benign growth that appears on the conjunctiva, the clear tissue covering the white part of the eye. A pinguecula typically forms in response to repeated irritation, often from UV exposure or environmental factors.

Its appearance is characterized by a yellowish, elevated area, usually on the nasal side of the eye, and it tends to remain stable in size without causing significant discomfort. Unlike pterygium, which is a more invasive growth that can extend onto the cornea and potentially block vision, the pinguecula rarely affects vision and is primarily of cosmetic concern.

In contrast, a pterygium is a growth that can migrate over the cornea and may require treatment if it affects vision. A chalazion is a cyst in the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland, and a hordeolum, commonly known as a stye, is an infection of the eyelid's oil glands. Neither of these conditions presents as a conjunctival mass. Therefore, the description of a yellow, fleshy conjunctival mass aligns perfectly with the definition of a pinguecula.