What is Eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the esophagus, the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. It is characterized by an excessive buildup of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the esophageal tissue. EoE is considered an allergic condition, often triggered by certain foods or environmental allergens.

Symptoms: Common symptoms of EoE include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, food impaction, heartburn, and regurgitation. These symptoms can vary in severity and may be mistaken for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Diagnosis: Diagnosis of EoE involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, endoscopy, and biopsy. During an endoscopy, a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus to examine the tissue. Biopsy samples are taken to assess the presence of eosinophils.

Treatment: The primary goal of EoE treatment is to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. This often involves dietary changes, such as eliminating trigger foods, and using proton pump inhibitors or corticosteroids to control inflammation. In some cases, dilation of the esophagus may be necessary to alleviate swallowing difficulties.

EoE is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management and monitoring. It is important to work closely with healthcare professionals to develop an individualized treatment plan and make necessary lifestyle adjustments to effectively manage the condition.