Frequency of Herpes Virus (HSV) in Esophageal Muscle Samples among Patients with Achalasia under Heller Myotomy

Background: Despite years of research, the etiology of achalasia not well understood. Scientists suppose a role for autoimmunity, in this disorder, and probable viral agent, such as herpes virus (HSV). The aim was to find out the frequency of HSV in esophageal muscle samples in patients with achalasia under Heller's myotomy. Methods In this study, 60 patients with achalasia, after fulfilling the consent form, were underwent Heller’s myotomy surgery. Biopsy samples prepared for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method for HSV DNA detection. After DNA-extraction, replication performed using specific primers. Results The mean age was 40.62 ± 5.08 years. Thirty-nine patients (65%) were female and 21 (35%) were male. Thirty-eight (63.3%) had no history but the else (36.7%) had a positive history of HSV. HSV-1 was positive in three patients (5%). Two females and one male were HSV-positive. Conclusions HSV-1 frequency is not notable among Iranian patients with achalasia. We suggest exploring other viruses, in special that involving the pathogenesis of achalasia, with a larger sample size.