Esophagitis caused by L-arginine capsule retention: Presentation of four cases

Pill-Induced Esophagitis From Intake of Dietary Supplements

Cases of pill-induced esophagitis can be associated with significant acute symptoms leading to hospitalization and have resulted in mediastinal penetration and hemorrhage. Clinicians often consider the diagnosis in patients taking classically associated medications. However, because many patients take dietary supplements, it is important to consider these as a potential etiology in a patient presenting with esophageal symptoms. We present a case of pill-induced esophagitis in a 40-year-old woman after the ingestion of l-arginine, selenium, and vitamin E supplements. Literature review revealed 6 cases of l-arginine–induced esophagitis reported, and no previous cases associated with vitamin E or selenium.