dendritic keratitis, inflammation of the cornea and conjunctiva caused by herpesvirus type 1. Also called herpetic keratitis. ▪ OBSERVATIONS: 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. ▪ INTERVENTIONS: Treatment entails application of idoxuridine (IDU), chemical debridement with an iodine tincture, or surgical removal of the layer of corneal tissue cells affected. ▪ PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS: 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.
