Herpes simplex virus-1 oesophagitis presenting with persistent hiccough in an immunocompetent host: A case report

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) oesophagitis as an aetiology of persistent hiccough is a rarity in immunocompetent hosts and entails an exhaustive diagnostic work-up, since it does not present with any of the typical oesophagitis symptoms. Our patient presented with persistent hiccoughs that were resistant to treatment with baclofen. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of HSV-1 oesophagitis. The hiccough subsided within 48 h of aciclovir therapy.