NON RARE IN EUROPE: Eosinophilic esophagitis

Eosinophilic esophagitis, often called EoE for short, is a chronic condition where a type of white blood cell called an eosinophil builds up in the esophagus — the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. Normally, eosinophils are not found in the esophagus, but in EoE they gather there and cause inflammation, which makes swallowing difficult and painful over time. EoE is considered an allergic or immune-driven disease, and it is closely linked to food allergies and environmental allergies like pollen. The most common symptoms include trouble swallowing solid foods, food getting stuck in the throat or chest, heartburn that does not respond well to standard acid-reducing medicines, chest pain, and in children, poor growth or refusal to eat. Symptoms can vary a lot between children and adults. Children may show up as picky eaters or have poor weight gain, while adults more often notice food getting stuck. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and managing triggers. The main approaches include dietary changes (removing common food allergens like milk, wheat, eggs, soy, nuts, and seafood), swallowed corticosteroid medications (like budesonide or fluticasone), and proton pump inhibitors (acid-reducing drugs). In 2022, the FDA approved dupilumab (Dupixent) as the first biologic drug specifically for EoE in adults and adolescents. Endoscopic dilation may be needed if the esophagus has narrowed. With proper management, most people with EoE can live well, though the condition is usually lifelong.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What is the best treatment approach for my specific case — diet, medication, or both?,How often will I need endoscopies to monitor my condition?,Should I see an allergist to identify my food or environmental triggers?,Am I a candidate for dupilumab (Dupixent), and what are the pros and cons?,What are the signs that my esophagus is narrowing, and when would I need a dilation procedure?,How do I safely follow an elimination diet without missing important nutrients?,What should I do if food gets completely stuck and I cannot swallow?

Common questions about NON RARE IN EUROPE: Eosinophilic esophagitis

Related conditions

Other rare diseases commonly researched alongside NON RARE IN EUROPE: Eosinophilic esophagitis.

• Eosinophilic gastroenteritis→