Herpes simplex esophagitis after renal transplantation

Abstract

This paper describes five renal transplant recipients, out of a series of 221 consecutive patients, who developed herpes simplex esophagitis. This opportunistic infection presented as odyno- and/or dysphagia. It occurred during or shortly after treatment of acute cellular rejection episodes with high doses of steroids and, in four cases, of anti-lymphocyte globulins. The infection responded to acyclovir in all patients. We conclude from these observations that herpes esophagitis occurs during periods of intensive immunosuppression. Because its endoscopic manifestations are variable, biopsies and cultures are essential to reach the diagnosis. Prevention may be possible by avoiding transplantation from a seropositive donor to a negative recipient and by prophylactic oral acyclovir.