CMV Esophagitis

Definition

CMV esophagitis is an infection of the esophagus caused by the cytomegalovirus (CMV).

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

CMV esophagitis usually affects immunosuppressed or immunodeficient people. It causes esophageal ulcers with very painful and difficult swallowing. Oral lesions, often in the form of mouth ulcers, may also be present.

Symptoms

  • low grade fever
  • difficult and painful swallowing
  • oral lesions (mouth sores)

Signs and tests

Treatment

Most specialists suggest treatment with antiviral medications that are given through a vein (intravenous). Usually, ganciclovir or foscarnet are given. A newer oral medication called valganciclovir is also very useful.

Expectations (prognosis)

Esophagitis can usually be treated effectively. The outcome depends upon the underlying immunodeficiency that makes the person more susceptible to the infection.

Complications

  • recurrent infection
  • infection at other sites

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if symptoms of esophagitis CMV develop, especially if you are immunosuppressed.

Prevention

Prevention of AIDS prevents opportunistic infections, such as those caused by the cytomegalovirus. (Opportunistic infections are infections by organisms that are not normally disease-producing, but take advantage of a situation, such as a damaged immune system.) AIDS patients who are effectively treated with antiretroviral therapy are much less likely to get CMV infection.

CMV esophagitis
CMV esophagitis
Upper gastrointestinal system
Upper gastrointestinal system
Review Date: 2/13/2006
Reviewed By: Monica Gandhia, M.D., M.P.H., Assistant Professor, Division of Infectious Diseases, UCSF, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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