Eosinophilic esophagitis (EE) is a disease that was first described in children only 20 years ago, but has shown a rising incidence in both children and adults.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EE) is an inflammation (swelling) of the esophagus caused by allergy cells called eosinophils.  In EE the entire length of the esophagus (the soft tube-like portion of the digestive tract that leads from the back of the mouth) can become filled with eosinophils.  This can lead to trouble swallowing, abdominal pain, vomiting, and, at times, an inability to eat enough food to grow properly.   It is believed that EE is caused by allergies to foods and/or aeroallergens (allergens that are breathed in like pollens). 

Treatment

There are different treatments for EE.  Steroids can be swallowed to locally treat the inflammation in the esophagus.  Foods can be eliminated from the diet or formulas that have no food proteins (elemental formula) can be use instead of regular food.  It is also important to control your other allergic problems like hay fever and/or asthma.

Research

Current research on EE includes finding a way to test for it other than with endsocopy alone, new ways to identify allergens that cause EE, and new treatments for EE.

Current Research Studies:
“Characteristics and inflammatory markers in children with eosinophilic esophagitis: a prospective study.”
 Contact: Dr. Aceves at 858-966-5961 or our clinic nurse coordinator, Carrie Arii, RN at 858-966-1700 x4214

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