gastrointestinal disorders
Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Introduction
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune-mediated disease of the esophagus resulting in eosinophil-predominant inflammation of the esophagus; it can cause reflux-like symptoms, dysphagia, and food impaction. Diagnosis is by endoscopy with biopsy. Treatment includes proton pump inhibitors, topical corticosteroids, dietary changes, and sometimes esophageal dilation. (See also Overview of Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders .) Eosinophilic esophagitis is an increasingly recognized disease that can begin at any time between infancy and young adulthood; it occasionally manifests in older adults. It is more common among males. The cause of eosinophilic esophagitis is likely an immune response to dietary antigens in patients with genetic susceptibility; environmental allergens may also play a role. Untreated chronic esophageal inflammation ultimately can lead to esophageal narrowing and Obstructive Disorders of the Esophagus . 