Eosinophilic esophagitis: affecting all ages.
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder in which elevated eosinophils are found in the esophagus, and symptoms related to esophageal dysfunction are experienced. It has been found in both children and adults. Diagnosis is based on 15 or more eosinophils per high power field in one or more esophageal biopsy specimens coupled with a lack of response to acid suppression therapy or a normal pH monitoring study. It is often associated with other allergic conditions such as eczema and asthma. The reported cases of eosinophilic esophagitis have risen in the past decade, but whether this reflects a true increase in incidence or simply an increased recognition of the disorder by providers is not clear. Patients present with a wide range of symptoms from feeding difficulties, food refusal, and vomiting in children, to dysphagia and food impaction in adults. Treatment options for patients include dietary restrictions, topical steroids, and esophageal dilation.
Michele Pliego Bruesehoff, RN, BAN, CGRN, is Unit Coordinator, Charge Nurse, GI Procedure Clinic, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Michele Pliego
MP
Bruesehoff
D000328:Adult; D057765:Eosinophilic Esophagitis; D006801:Humans