dendritic keratitis

dendritic keratitis or dendriform keratitis

n.

A form of keratitis associated with herpes simplex virus and characterized by branching ulceration of the corneal tissue.

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dendritic keratitis,

inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva caused by herpesvirus type 1. It is characterized by an ulceration of the surface of the cornea resembling a tree with knobs at the ends of the branches. Photophobia, the sensation of a foreign body in the eye, pain, and conjunctivitis are usual. Treatment entails application of idoxuridine (IDU), chemical debridement with an iodine tincture, or surgical removal of the layer of corneal tissue cells affected. Untreated dendritic keratitis may cause permanent scarring of the cornea with impaired vision or blindness. Recurrent dendritic keratitis is often followed by disciform keratitis, which is characterized by clouding and deep swelling of the cornea and inflammation of the iris. Also called herpetic keratitis.

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dendritic keratitis

Ophthalmology Keratitis characterized by linear and arborescent ulcerations on the anterior corneal surface seen in the relatively mild keratitis caused by herpes simplex or herpes zoster. Cf Geographic ulcer.