Eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a disease that has moved from relative obscurity, known to a few pediatricians, to one of emerging interest and attention in both the pediatric and adult literature. In part, this is due to the underrecognition of the disease, its increasing description in adults, and the fact that it may be a great imitator of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Symptoms may be protean including heartburn, dysphagia, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain accompanied by a history of atopic illnesses. Similarly, endoscopic and radiographic appearances may vary, ranging from stricture and ‘ring’ formation to a completely normal-appearing esophagus, with diagnosis made only on biopsy sampling throughout the entire esophagus. Because this disease is thought to be allergic in origin, primary therapy is an attempt to identify and exclude possible food allergens through skin testing. Owing to the inability to identify an allergen or, conversely, poor compliance with a diet avoiding multiple food allergens, steroids may be useful in this disease. Strictures often require dilation as well owing to the chronic and fibrotic nature of these lesions.