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Herpetic esophagitis in an immunocompetent boy
M J Chusid1, H W Oechler, S L Werlin
1Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee.
Wisconsin Medical Journal
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Herpes esophagitis, caused by herpes simplex virus type 1, is rare in immunocompetent children. This case highlights the need to consider this viral infection in children presenting with fever and painful swallowing.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Herpes esophagitis is typically seen in immunocompromised individuals.
- Esophageal ulceration in children can have various etiologies.
Observation:
- An immunocompetent 12-year-old boy presented with epigastric pain, odynophagia, fever, and hematemesis.
- Esophagoscopy revealed proximal and distal esophageal ulcerations.
- Histopathology was inconclusive, but herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) was isolated.
Findings:
- HSV-1 was identified as the causative agent of esophagitis in this immunocompetent child.
- The patient experienced rapid clinical improvement following treatment with acyclovir.
Implications:
- Herpes esophagitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric odynophagia and fever, regardless of immune status.
- Early diagnosis and antiviral treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric herpes esophagitis.