[Herpetic esophagitis in human immunodeficiency virus non infected patients]

We report five cases of herpetic esophagitis in human immunodeficiency virus non-infected patients. Herpetic esophagitis is a frequent infection in immunocompromised patients. However, sixty four cases of herpetic esophagitis have been reported in immunocompetent patients. The infection presents non-specific esophageal symptoms. Diagnosis relies on esophageal histology and viral cultures. Treatment by acyclovir is recommended to prevent severe complications. This infection is probably underestimated in immunocompetent hosts but seems to be more frequent in patients with severe illness that can be responsible for transitory immunodeficiency. Biopsies of esophageal lesions should be systematically performed in these patients.