EoE is a common cause of difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, in adults. It is thought to be an allergic condition, related to food or other environmental allergens, which causes inflammation and scarring that can affect both esophageal structure and function. In some way, it can be thought of as an asthma-like condition in the esophagus. Typical symptoms include an intermittent sensation of food sticking inside the chest, chest pain or heartburn. In severe cases, food can get stuck in the esophagus requiring an endoscopy to remove the trapped food.
Diagnosing EoE requires that a patient undergo an upper endoscopy to look at the lining of the esophagus and to take biopsies looking for eosinophils.
Several potential treatment options exist, including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and topical steroids. Specific food elimination diets may also be used to identify the causative food(s), avoidance of which can improve inflammation and symptoms. Additionally, if a narrowing is seen in the esophagus, the endoscopist can dilate this area to provide more-immediate relief of symptoms.
Jeffrey Conklin, MD
Medical Director, UCLA Center for Esophageal Disorders
Director, Gastrointestinal Motor Function Laboratory
310-208-5400 - Patient Appointments
Kevin Ghassemi, MD
Director, Clinical Programs
UCLA Center for Esophageal Disorders
310-208-5400 - Patient Appointments
