Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) Treatment

Comprehensive Care for Chronic Esophageal Inflammation

What is Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)?

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated condition that causes inflammation in the esophagus. It occurs when a type of white blood cell called an eosinophil builds up in the esophageal lining in response to allergens, food, or acid reflux. Over time, this inflammation can lead to difficulty swallowing, pain, and even narrowing of the esophagus.

At Central Gastro, we specialize in diagnosing and managing EoE with personalized treatment plans that alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.

Symptoms of Eosinophilic Esophagitis

EoE symptoms can vary between adults and children but often include:

Adults:

• Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Especially with solid foods.
• Food Impaction: Food getting stuck in the esophagus.
• Chest Pain or Discomfort: Non-cardiac chest pain.
• Heartburn: Persistent symptoms despite acid-reducing medications.

Children:

• Feeding Difficulties or Refusal to Eat
• Failure to Thrive or Poor Growth
• Vomiting or Nausea
• Abdominal Pain

If you or your child experiences these symptoms, early evaluation is key to preventing complications such as esophageal narrowing or strictures.

What Causes Eosinophilic Esophagitis?

EoE is triggered by a combination of environmental and dietary allergens. Common causes include:

• Food Allergens: Dairy, wheat, soy, eggs, nuts, and seafood are typical triggers.
• Environmental Allergens: Pollen, dust mites, or pet dander.
• Genetics: A family history of EoE or other allergic conditions like asthma or eczema.

Diagnosis of Eosinophilic Esophagitis

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic tools to confirm EoE:

• Upper Endoscopy (EGD): Visualizes the esophagus and identifies inflammation, rings, or narrowing. Biopsies are taken to assess eosinophil levels.
• Allergy Testing: Identifies potential food or environmental triggers.
• Esophageal pH Monitoring: Evaluates whether acid reflux contributes to symptoms.

Treatment Options for Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Our goal at Central Gastro is to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent long-term complications. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient and may include:

1. Dietary Management

• Elimination Diet: Removing common food allergens and reintroducing them one at a time to identify triggers.
• Elemental Diet: A liquid formula diet that eliminates all allergens, often used for severe cases.
• Consultation with a Dietitian: To ensure proper nutrition during dietary adjustments.

2. Medications

• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce acid production and inflammation in the esophagus.
• Topical Steroids: Swallowed corticosteroids (e.g., fluticasone, budesonide) to reduce esophageal inflammation.
• Systemic Steroids: For severe cases or during acute flare-ups.
• Biologics: Newer treatments targeting the immune response causing EoE.

3. Endoscopic Interventions

• Esophageal Dilation: Gently stretches narrowed areas of the esophagus to improve swallowing.
• Biopsy and Monitoring: Periodic endoscopies ensure effective treatment and monitor for complications.

Long-Term Management of EoE

EoE is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management. At Central Gastro, we provide:

• Regular Monitoring: Routine endoscopies to assess inflammation and prevent strictures.
• Allergy Support: Coordinated care with allergists to manage triggers effectively.
• Patient Education: Guidance on maintaining a symptom-free lifestyle with dietary and medication compliance.

When to Seek Treatment for EoE

If you or your child experiences persistent difficulty swallowing, food impaction, or other symptoms of EoE, it’s crucial to seek evaluation and treatment. Early intervention prevents complications and improves long-term outcomes.