Archipelago keratitis.

Archipelago keratitis is an atypical form of herpes simplex virus epithelial keratitis. It can present as multiple foci of small dendritic epithelial keratitis [Fig. 1] involving either the periphery or the entire cornea resembling an archipelago (Greek word: cluster of islands).[1] The migration of limbal epithelial cells to the center of the cornea facilitates the viral spread, resulting in this unique pattern. This is seen with induced immunosuppression with systemic or topical agents or due to acquired immune deficiency. Diagnosis is clinical with a history of immunosuppression. Prompt initiation of topical antiviral therapy will aid in complete resolution.

Figure 1

(a) Diffuse slit examination of the cornea, stained with rosebengal and fluorescein under cobalt blue filter showing multiple foci or islands of small dendrites spread across the entire cornea. (b) Diffuse slit examination of the cornea stained with fluorescein under cobalt blue filter showing multiple islands and a chain of dendrites at limbus

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