What does opthalmoscopy of dendritic ulcers typically show?

Dendritic ulcers, typically associated with herpes simplex virus infections of the cornea, manifest distinctive features during ophthalmoscopy. The correct choice reflects these unique characteristics.

When performing ophthalmoscopy on a dendritic ulcer, the primary finding is the delicate branching patterns that resemble a tree's branches or dendrites. These branching lesions indicate damage to the epithelial layer of the cornea and are often surrounded by bright staining due to the uptake of fluorescent dye, which helps to visualize these patterns clearly.

This appearance can be critical for healthcare providers as it aids in the diagnosis of herpetic keratitis and differentiates it from other types of corneal pathology. Recognizing these patterns is essential for timely treatment and preventing complications associated with herpes infections, such as corneal scarring or vision impairment.

The other choices do not accurately describe the appearance of dendritic ulcers. Flat lesions, white patches, or complete corneal transparency do not align with the typical findings for dendritic ulcers seen in cases of herpes simplex keratitis.