This site uses tracking information. Visit our privacy policy. Click to agree to this policy and not see this again.

Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) disciform keratitis

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) disciform keratitis

Category(ies): Cornea
Contributor: Jesse Vislisel, MD
Photographer: Brice Critser, CRA

Herpetic disciform keratitis is a primary endotheliitis resulting in both stromal and epithelial edema in a round (disciform) distribution with keratic precipitates underlying the area of edema. The corneal edema and keratic precipitates appear to be out of proportion to the degree of anterior chamber inflammation, in contrast to uveitis with secondary corneal decompensation. Disciform keratitis may be caused by both herpes simplex and herpes zoster viruses.