Herpetic esophagitis in immunocompentent host: cases report.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Herpetic esophagitis (EH) is typically seen in immunocompromised individuals.
• Cases in immunocompetent patients are rare, with limited data on antiviral therapy efficacy.

Observation:

• Four young, immunocompetent patients presented with dysphagia, odynophagia, and epigastric pain.
• Endoscopic examination revealed distal esophageal lesions.
• Histopathology and viral DNA confirmed herpes virus infection.

Findings:

• All patients showed anatomopathological evidence of acute herpetic esophagitis.
• 50% had serology consistent with acute HSV-1 infection.
• All patients responded well to acyclovir therapy, improving oral intake.

Implications:

• Acyclovir may be beneficial for treating herpetic esophagitis in immunocompetent patients.
• This case series contributes to understanding EH in a rarely affected population.
• Further research is needed to establish definitive treatment guidelines.