Herpes esophagitis in immunocompetent patients.

Although herpes simplex virus is a recognized cause of esophagitis in immunocompromised patients, it may also be the etiologic agent in otherwise healthy individuals. Odynophagia and dysphagia are the major symptoms. The esophagogram may reveal ulcers in the distal esophagus and there may be motor disturbances as well. Esophageal endoscopy may show vesicles, ulceration or plaques. In the immunocompetent patient, herpes esophagitis is a self-limited disease.