What is EoE?
EoE is when eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, build up in the esophagus causing inflammation, which may cause pain and trouble swallowing.
What causes EoE?
There is no known exact cause, but it is thought to be caused by an immune system/allergic reaction to foods or substances in your environment.
How is EoE diagnosed?
- Upper Gl endoscopy
- Biopsy
- Evaluation for allergies
Signs and symptoms
- difficulty swallowing, especially solid foods
- food impaction
- chest pain
- upper abdominal pain
- reflux that doesn’t get better with medicine
- poor appetite, vomiting, poor weight gain, and growth, in toddlers and infants
How is EoE treated?
- Dietary therapy
- Steroids
- Acid suppressors: PPls
- Esophageal dilation
FAQ
Who is at most at risk for developing EoE?
White, male, have family members with EoE, and those with other allergic diseases
What is the difference between EoE and GERD?
GERD is caused by acid reflux and presents with heartburn and regurgitation. EoE is an
immune or antigen mediated response and presents with chest pain and food impaction.
How long does EoE last?
EoE is a chronic disease and if left untreated patient can remain symptomatic or have
episodic symptoms.
References
Kia L, Hirano I. Distinguishing GERD from eosinophilic esophagitis: concepts and
controversies. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2015;12(7):379-386.
doi:10.1038/nrgastro.2015.75 (link reference to https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25986303/)
Bonis AL, Gupta SK. Treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis. Uptodate Inc.; 2022. Updated
March 18, 2022. Accessed May 11, 2022. (link reference to https://www.uptodate.com/contents/treatment-of-eosinophilic-esophagitis-eoe)
Eosinophilic esophagitis. MedlinePlus. Accessed May 11, 2022.
