Dendritic corneal lesions associated with soft contact lens wear.

Two cases of dendritic lesions associated with soft contact lens wear occurred that were referred as cases of herpes simplex keratitis. Lesions resolved after temporary discontinuation of soft lens wear and conversion to thermal sterilization. The pseudodendrite is presumed to result from a toxic or hypersensitivity reaction to contact lens material or to components of chemical sterilization systems. Several dendritic lesions may be confused with herpes simplex. The soft contact lens associated pseudodendrite is added to this list. Accurate diagnosis can be made by careful attention to the clinical history and the morphologic features of the dendrite in most cases.