Treatment:

Treatment involves antiviral medications that are given through a vein (intravenously), such as ganciclovir or foscarnet. In some cases, patients are given an antiviral medicine called valganciclovir, which is taken by mouth.

Some people with this condition also need pain medicine.

Many people who are treated for an episode of CMV esophagitis take medicine to suppress the CMV for a long time.

Expectations (prognosis):

Esophagitis can usually be treated effectively. The outcome depends on the immune system problem that makes the person more likely to get the infection.

Complications:

• Infection at other sites
• Holes in your esophagus (perforations)
• Recurrent infection

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms of CMV esophagitis, especially if you have a suppressed immune system.