Open AccessEosinophilic esophagitis in adults: An update
Author(s) -
Monjur Ahmed
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
world journal of gastrointestinal pharmacology and therapeutics
Language(s) - Uncategorized
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2150-5349
DOI - 10.4292/wjgpt.v7.i2.207
Subject(s) - eosinophilic esophagitis , medicine , dysphagia , eosinophilia , esophagus , dermatology , esophagitis , gastroenterology , proton pump inhibitor , disease , gerd , elimination diet , surgery , food allergy , allergy , immunology , reflux
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a worldwide chronic allergic disease of the esophagus. In the last decade, there is an epidemic of this entity in the western world. Mostly seen in children and young adults, patients present with dysphagia or food impaction in the emergency room. Characteristic endoscopic findings, esophageal eosinophilia and non-responsiveness to proton pump inhibitors help make the diagnosis. Avoidance of food allergens, administration of steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and dilation of the esophagus are the mainstays of treatment. Investigations are ongoing for mucosal healing and optimum maintenance treatment.