Eosinophilic esophagitis synonyms:
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the esophagus characterized by the presence of an abnormally high number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the esophageal tissue. This condition is often associated with various symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, chest pain, food impaction, and heartburn.
There are several synonyms used to refer to eosinophilic esophagitis:
- Allergic esophagitis: This term emphasizes the allergic nature of the condition, as it is believed to be triggered by an immune response to certain foods or environmental allergens.
- Eosinophilic gastroenteritis: This term is used when eosinophilic inflammation is present not only in the esophagus but also in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract, such as the stomach and small intestine.
- Primary eosinophilic esophagitis: This term is used to differentiate EoE from secondary eosinophilic esophagitis, which can occur as a result of other conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or parasitic infections.
- Allergic granulomatous esophagitis: This term is used when granulomas, which are small areas of inflamed tissue, are present in addition to eosinophilic inflammation.
- Idiopathic eosinophilic esophagitis: This term is used when the cause of EoE is unknown.
It is important to note that while these terms are used interchangeably, they all refer to the same underlying condition of eosinophilic esophagitis. The choice of terminology may vary depending on the context and the preferences of healthcare professionals.