A Case of Herpes Esophagitis in Young Immunocompromised Host

Abstract

A 20-year-old man presented to our department with hematemesis and odynophagia. The patient had been in his usual state of health before this presentation. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed multiple ulcer scars in the esophagus. EGD findings suggested Herpes esophagitis (HE). Endoscopic biopsy specimens were obtained from esophagus, stomach and duodenum. Histological examination showed only nonspecific neutrophilic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa, but we could not reveal the evidence of any virus infection. There was not the rise of the antibody titer of HSV. 3 weeks later, his symptoms improved without antiviral therapy. And the ulcer of esophagus disappeared endoscopically.

HE is commonly seen in immunocompromised hosts, such as those with malignancy, HIV infection. However it has rarely been reported in immunocompetent hosts, and they are typically diagnosed at younger average age than immunocompromised hosts.

We concluded HE in young immunocompromised host from EGD findings.