Health Topics A-Z | Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Example of an Emerging Allergic Manifestation?

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Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Example of an Emerging Allergic Manifestation?

Authors: Heine RG
Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in the number of children and adults with eosinophilic esophagitis (EE). This recently recognized form of chronic pan-esophagitis is characterized by dense eosinophilic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa. EE is closely associated with male gender and allergic disorders, such as food allergy, eczema and asthma. The diagnosis relies on demonstration of increased numbers of eosinophils (>/= 15 per high power field) in esophageal biopsies. There is clinical overlap between EE and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients with EE typically present with reflux symptoms but are unresponsive to proton pump inhibitor therapy. While dysphagia, regurgitation and retrosternal pain are the clinical hallmarks ...