What is eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)?
EoE is a chronic, lifelong immune disease that affects the esophagus.
Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that defends the body in response to triggers such as food and environmental allergens.
EoE occurs when an allergen causes eosinophils to accumulate in the esophagus, causing inflammation.
Symptoms of EoE include:
These symptoms may come and go, appear once in a while, or appear continuously.
Infants with EoE may have difficulty feeding and may vomit. They may not be getting enough nutrients to grow properly. This is called growth failure.
EoE diagnosis
EoE is diagnosed by a gastroenterologist through a procedure called upper endoscopy with biopsy. This helps your healthcare provider (HCP) look for inflammation and eosinophils (white blood cells) in your esophagus.
Treatment and Management of EoE There is no cure for EoE, but treating and managing the disease can help keep EoE under control.
diet
Follow the guidance of your healthcare provider to identify and avoid specific foods that cause inflammation.
medication
Medicines include:
Medicine can help:
Reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
Reduces swelling and inflammation
Improved swallowing
Eliminates the need for dietary changes
Treatment is not one size fits all. Find an approach that makes you feel better and keeps your EoE under control over time.
Treating EoE is important
EoE is a lifelong chronic disease that requires ongoing monitoring and management, including endoscopy to monitor disease progression and response to treatment. If left untreated:
Inflammation can cause scar tissue.
The esophagus may become narrowed
Eating can be painful
Food may get stuck in the esophagus.
The disease may progress
If you have symptoms of EoE, consult a gastroenterologist.
resources
American College of Gastroenterology – Quiz: Do I Have EOE?
American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders
This training material was created with support from Regeneron, Sanofi, and Takeda.
