The Medical Management of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58931/cait.2021.1322Abstract
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) was first recognised as a unique condition in the early 1990s. It was described by Alex Straumannwho identified 10 children with resistant ‘gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms’ with typical endoscopic features and esophageal eosinophilia who achieved resolution of symptoms and esophageal eosinophilia with an elemental formula. While once a rare condition, EoE is being increasingly diagnosed worldwide, with an incidence rate estimated to be 5 to 10 per 100,000. While widely recognised as being a Th-2 inflammatory disorder, predominantly triggered by food allergens, there is a growing body of literature supporting the role of aeroallergens in the condition. Management of the condition involves close collaboration amongst gastroenterology and allergy specialists. At least half of affected patients will have other allergic disorders including allergic rhinitis, asthma, eczema and some will also have IgE-mediated food allergies. Workup and management of aeroallergen sensitivities is important as swallowed aeroallergens may be a contributing factor to eosinophilic esophagitis, with many patients noting a seasonal exacerbation in their symptoms.
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