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Herpes Esophagitis



Herpetic esophagitis
Herpetic esophagitis
Upper gastrointestinal system
Upper gastrointestinal system


Herpes Esophagitis

Definition:

Herpes esophagitis is an infection causing inflammation and ulcers in the esophagus. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus.


Alternative Names:
Herpes esophagitis
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Infection of the esophagus by the herpes simplex virus in individuals with normal immune systems is very rare and usually runs its course without treatment, but severe and persistent esophagitis can occur in an immunosuppressed or immunodeficient person.

Herpetic esophagitis causes excruciating pain when swallowing. The infection is frequently associated with fever and occasionally chills. Healthy individuals recover spontaneously in 3 to 5 days but those with weakened immune systems take longer.




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