A Case of Herpes simplex Esophagitis in an Immunocompetent Boy.
- Author:
Joong Suk YEO
1
;
Je Deok JEON
;
Soo Hee CHANG
Author Information
1. Department of Pediatrics, Bundang Jesaeng Hospital, Seongnam, Korea. csh5015@dmc.or.kr
- Publication Type:Case Report
- Keywords:
Herpes simplex;
Esophagitis;
Immunocompetent children
- MeSH:
Antibodies;
Biopsy;
Child;
Deglutition Disorders;
Esophagitis;
Esophagoscopy;
Fever;
Herpes Simplex;
Humans;
Male;
Methylmethacrylates;
Polymerase Chain Reaction;
Polystyrenes;
Simplexvirus;
Ulcer;
Viruses
- From:Korean Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
2008;11(1):70-74
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Herpes simplex virus has rarely been identified as a cause of esophagitis in immunocompetent children. This virus affects predominantly males presenting with symptoms of fever, odynophagia, dysphagia, and retrosternal pain of acute onset. Esophagoscopy typically reveals exudative well-circumscribed ulcerations of the distal and/or mid-esophagus. Further investigations using biopsy, viral culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and seroconversion of antibodies to Herpes simplex are recommended to assist with a definitive diagnosis. This esophagitis is often a self-limited infection in immunocompetent children. Nevertheless, antiviral treatment may expedite symptom relief with Herpes simplex virus infection. It is imperative to document herpes esophagitis in cases with subsequent severe odynophagia in immunocompetent children. Here we present the case of a 12-year-old immunocompetent boy with herpes esophagitis.
