Herpes Esophagitis
Alternate Names : Herpes Esophagitis
Definition An infection causing inflammation and ulcers in the esophagus by the herpes simplex virus.
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Infection 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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