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Case Report Volume 16 Issue 2
Herpes zoster disciform keratitis – a case report
Arthur Watson, Kara N Webster, Chad E Gosnell, Len V Koh
Received: June 10, 2026 | Published: June 26, 2026
Citation: Watson A, Webster KN, Gosnell CE, et al. Herpes zoster disciform keratitis – a case report. Adv Ophthalmol Vis Syst. 2026;16(2):45-48. DOI: 10.15406/aovs.2026.16.00508
Abstract
Background: Disciform Keratitis is one of the many presentations that can occur in Herpes
Zoster Ophthalmicus. It is a form endotheliitis that is accompanied by corneal swelling
due to cellular dysfunction. Management of these cases involves oral antivirals and topical
corticosteroids; extended prophylactic antiviral therapy should also be considered.
Case report: A 57-year-old white male who was immunocompromised due to leukemia
presented with decreased vision accompanied with central corneal swelling and a circular
area of keratic precipitates. He had an ocular history significant for skin lesions involving
the ipsilateral eyelid about one month prior. When treated with oral valacyclovir and topical
prednisolone, he responded well and had an excellent visual recovery. Due to herpes zoster
recurrence and his immunocompromised status, we advised this patient to use prophylactic
antivirals for one year following the event.
Conclusion: Herpes Zoster is a common disease, and ocular involvement is frequently
seen. This case outlines a classic presentation of disciform keratitis due to herpes zoster.
Additionally, this case highlights prophylactic treatment that should be considered,
especially when the affected patients are immunocompromised and prone to recurrence. If
not managed appropriately, patients may suffer from profound vision loss. Timely diagnosis
and treatment are essential to help patients obtain their best visual outcome.
Keywords: herpes, zoster; herpes zoster ophthalmicus, infectious keratitis, disciform keratitis, endotheliitis, antivirals, valacyclovir
©2026 Watson, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.