Detection of Herpes Simplex Virus and Human Papilloma Virus in Ophthalmic Pterygium

Abstract

The fact that HSV was not detected in conjunctival specimens implies a more specific correlation with pterygium, as compared with HPV. The detection of potentially oncogenic viruses, such as HSV and HPV, supports the concept that pterygium can be considered a neoplastic condition. The correlation of postoperative recurrence and a history of conjunctivitis with the simultaneous detection of HPV and HSV, implies a possible viral cooperation affecting the clinical profile of pterygium.