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Updated: Aug 12, 2026
07:55
Ex Vivo Organotypic Corneal Model of Acute Epithelial Herpes Simplex Virus Type I Infection
Published on: November 3, 2012
[Herpetic esophagitis in 5 immunocompetent patients]
J Van Ongeval1, L Rutgeerts, G Ghillebert
1Sint-Vincentius Ziekenhuis, afd. Interne Geneeskunde, Belgie.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|June 29, 1996
Summary
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) esophagitis can occur in immunocompetent individuals, presenting with symptoms like painful swallowing. Diagnosis requires endoscopy, but the condition is typically self-limiting, though antiviral treatment may be considered.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) esophagitis is commonly seen in immunocompromised patients.
- However, cases in immunocompetent individuals are less frequent but documented.
Observation:
- This study reports on five immunocompetent patients diagnosed with HSV esophagitis.
- Three of these patients presented with moderate illness.
Findings:
- Common symptoms include odynophagia, dysphagia, and chest pain.
- Diagnosis is confirmed via endoscopy with brush cytology, biopsy for histology, and viral culture.
- HSV esophagitis in immunocompetent hosts is generally an acute, self-limiting condition.
Implications:
- While self-limiting, early antiviral treatment with acyclovir may be beneficial.
- Highlights the importance of considering HSV as a cause of esophagitis even in immunocompetent patients.
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