Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Children

Abstract

Purpose of Review

EoE is a significant cause of gastrointestinal morbidity affecting 1:2000. Patients with EoE typically have multiple atopic comorbidities, and additionally, many patients with EoE can be controlled well with elimination diets. The purpose of this review is to summarize the care of pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis patients.

Recent Findings

EoE represents a distinct clinical syndrome which is characterized by esophageal dysfunction and eosinophil-predominant inflammation of the esophageal mucosa. Patients with EoE can present with varying symptoms depending on their age; in this review, we review the presenting features of eosinophilic esophagitis in children as well as a diagnostic algorithm for EoE. The mucosal inflammation in EoE is driven by exposure to food antigens in many patients with EoE. Therefore, for the majority of patients, the mainstays of treatment remain food elimination diets or swallowed steroids.

Summary

This review summarizes the diagnostic approach to eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) in pediatric patients, focusing on the importance of accurate diagnosis and selection of appropriate therapy.

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