Eosinophilic esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus (food tube that passes from the mouth to the stomach). In this condition, the inflammation contains large numbers of a type of white blood cell known as an eosinophil. Eosinophils are commonly involved in allergic reactions.
The main symptom of eosinophilic esophagitis is difficulty swallowing, known as dysphagia. There may be a feeling of food sticking in the esophagus after swallowing. Other possible associated symptoms include
- heartburn,
- chest pain, or
- upper abdominal pain.
Children with the condition may show symptoms and signs that include
- irritability,
- poor weight gain,
- nausea, and
- vomiting.
Cause of eosinophilic esophagitis
Doctors suspect some type of allergic reaction to be the cause of eosinophilic esophagitis. However, the exact substance that causes the condition is unknown.
Other eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms and signs
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Feeling that food is stuck in the esophagus
- Heartburn
- Upper abdominal pain
Main Article on Eosinophilic Esophagitis Symptoms and Signs
Pictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes
Examples of Medications for Eosinophilic Esophagitis Symptoms and Signs
- budesonide (Entocort EC, Uceris)
- budesonide (oral inhalation, Pulmicort, Pulmicort Flexhaler)
- esomeprazole (Nexium)
- fluticasone propionate oral inhaler (Flovent)
- lansoprazole (Heartburn Relief 24 Hour, Heartburn Treatment 24 Hour, Prevacid 24)
- omeprazole
- pantoprazole
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
- rabeprazole (Aciphex)
References
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.