Which of the following viruses is most commonly associated with infectious esophagitis?

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is the virus most commonly associated with infectious esophagitis, particularly in immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS. This association is primarily due to the ability of HSV to cause ulcerative lesions in the esophagus, which can lead to significant inflammation and symptomatology, including dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and odynophagia (painful swallowing).

In patients with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV, the risk for opportunistic infections increases. HSV can reactivate in these individuals, leading to the development of herpes esophagitis. The presentation often includes characteristic findings on endoscopy, such as well-defined, shallow ulcers and a history suggestive of viral infection, such as fever and herpes lesions elsewhere on the body.

While other viruses like the Influenza Virus and Hepatitis B Virus may cause systemic illness, they are not typically associated with esophageal infection or esophagitis. Influenza primarily affects the respiratory system, and Hepatitis B is primarily a liver-affecting virus. Human Immunodeficiency Virus can lead to a range of opportunistic infections, but it's HSV that is directly linked to infectious esophagitis in the context of viral