What is EOE?
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergen mediated disease of the esophagus, or food pipe, that is caused by certain foods or environmental allergens. It causes inflammation of the esophagus by a specific white blood cell called the eosinophil. These eosinophils build up in the lining of the esophagus which is what causes it to get inflamed. When your esophagus is inflamed, it can cause the esophagus not to move food down to the stomach as easily. This can lead to the symptoms people experience such as difficulty swallowing or the sensation of food becoming stuck in the esophagus. It is more common in boys than girls. It is also more common in kids who have allergies, asthma, and eczema. It does run in families, so a positive family history increases your risk of developing the illness.
Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
- Dairy - the most common trigger
- Soy
- Wheat
- Egg
- Peanuts/Tree-nuts
- Fish/Seafood
Research
Eosinophil-Derived Neurotoxin Predicts Response to Proton-Pump Inhibitor Treatment in Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis (lww.com)
Your Pediatric Team at PB Digestive
Sari M. Kay, MD is a board-certified Pediatric Gastroenterologist. She has a specialties and expertise in treating patients with inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, constipation, infant reflux, and functional GI disorders.
Laura E. Irastorza, MD is a board-certified Pediatric Gastroenterologist. She has expertise in treating patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, constipation, reflux, and functional GI disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.
