Herpes Simplex Esophagitis in Immunocompetent Patients: A Rare But Easily Managed Condition

Herpes simplex (HS) is an opportunistic infection, primarily in immunocompromised patients, caused by herpes simplex virus. Oral and genital mucosa are the most commonly involved sites; it is rare for HSV to invade the esophagus and cause esophagitis, especially in immunocompetent patients. Here, we present a case where an immunocompetent patient presented with HS esophagitis, which had evolved into esophageal ulcers. He was successfully treated with acyclovir. Subsequently, we did a comprehensive literature search and tabulated all the possible complications and management plans of previously reported cases of HS in immunocompetent patients.