Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a long-term condition that affects the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. In EoE, a type of white blood cell called an eosinophil builds up in the lining of the esophagus. This buildup can cause irritation and swelling, leading to symptoms such as trouble swallowing, food getting stuck, chest or stomach pain, heartburn that does not improve with usual medications, or feeding problems and poor weight gain in children. EoE often occurs in patients who have other allergic disorders. EoE can be linked to inflammation in the esophagus from certain foods, particularly in genetically predisposed patients, although the exact cause can differ from person to person.
To evaluate for EoE, your care team will start by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. A key part of diagnosis is an upper endoscopy (EGD), performed by a gastroenterologist, where a small camera is used to look at the esophagus and take tiny tissue samples (biopsies) to confirm the build-up of eosinophils. Treatment options may include avoiding certain trigger foods, medications to reduce inflammation (such as swallowed steroids or injectable biologic medications), or treatments to reduce acid in the esophagus. Because EoE is a chronic condition, ongoing monitoring and adjustment of treatment is often needed to help control symptoms and prevent narrowing and irreversible scarring of the esophagus.
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