Pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis: a review for the clinician

Ital J Pediatr. 2021 Nov 22;47(1):230. doi: 10.1186/s13052-021-01178-2.

Abstract

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic clinical-pathologic disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophageal epithelium with esophageal dysfunction symptoms.EoE can occur at any age and has different clinical manifestations depending on the age onset.To date, esophago-gastroduodenal endoscopy (EGD) with biopsy is the gold-standard for EoE diagnosis.According to the recent consensus guidelines, proton pump inhibitors, corticosteroids and elimination diets could be a first-line therapy option. The aim of the treatment is clinical and histological remission for preventing long-lasting untreatable fibrosis.A multidisciplinary approach (allergist, gastroenterology, dietitian, and pathologist) is recommended for managing patients affected by EoE, given the complexity of its treatment.This review will provide a practical guide to assist pediatricians treating children with EoE.Moreover, it highlights the unmet needs in diagnosis and treatment that require urgent attention from the scientific community in the aim of improving the management of patients with EoE.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Diet
  • Dilatation
  • Environmental Exposure
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis* / diagnosis
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis* / etiology
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis* / therapy
  • Esophagoscopy
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Glucocorticoids / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Pediatrics
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors / therapeutic use
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Glucocorticoids
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors