Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EE, EoE) is a disorder characterized by the infiltration of a large number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach). EE can be triggered by food allergies.

Symptoms vary, depending on age. With infants and toddlers, families often note feeding difficulties, irritability, and occasionally poor weight gain. Older children typically have regurgitation, vomiting, heartburn, and “belly pain.” Teenagers and adults may have chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and a feeling that food “gets stuck” when they swallow. Some individuals complain that it takes a long time to eat meals especially meat and that large quantities of water are required to complete a meal. They may also complain of feeling full rapidly and may stop eating before finishing a meal.

Once a diagnosis of EE is confirmed, allergy testing is typically required. In many situations, avoiding the allergens that trigger the eosinophils will be an effective treatment. Skin allergy testing will include skin prick testing and may also include patch testing (to look for delayed reactions).

To learn more about EE, please visit the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders website at www.apfed.org.

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