Final answer:
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) typically causes linear ulcerations in viral esophagitis, whereas Cytomegalovirus (CMV) causes punched-out ulcers. Diagnosis and treatment vary for both infections, with physical characteristics and specific antiviral medications used respectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks to compare the appearance of viral esophagitis caused by Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV). The correct answer is: a) HSV: Linear ulcerations; CMV: Punched-out ulcers. HSV typically causes linear ulcerations, whereas CMV is known for causing deeper, punched-out ulcers.
HSV-1 infections, which frequently manifest as oral herpes or cold sores, are usually diagnosed based on their appearance, and acyclovir is one of the treatments used. CMV infections often result in non-specific symptoms like fever and fatigue in adults and can lead to serious conditions in immunocompromised patients. Diagnosis includes looking for the characteristic 'owl's eye' inclusion bodies in cells, and ganciclovir is a common treatment.