keratic precipitates


ke·rat·ic pre·cip·i·tates (KP),

inflammatory cells on the corneal endothelium. Synonym(s): punctate keratitis, keratitis punctata

ke·rat·ic pre·cip·i·tates

(ker-at'ik prĕ-sip'i-tăts) Inflammatory cells on the corneal endothelium.

keratic precipitates (KP)

Cells (e.g. leukocytes) deposited on the endothelium of the cornea which occur as a result of inflammation of the iris or the ciliary body. They often collect in a triangular pattern with the base down (Arlt's triangle) on the inferior portion of the endothelial surface. They may also be distributed diffusely over the endothelium, as in Fuchs' heterochromic iridocyclitis or anterior uveitis, or concentrated in one area, as in disciform keratitis or herpes simplex keratitis. In granulomatous uveitis they are larger than in nongranulomatous uveitis, greasy in appearance (called 'mutton fat'). Following treatment of the primary cause they usually disappear. See cornea guttata.