“Eosinophilic esophagitis is an inflammatory disease of the esophagus, often triggered by food allergens, causing difficulty swallowing and food blockages,” explains Professor Sabine Roman, a gastroenterologist at the Hospices Civils de Lyon.
“The disease primarily affects young people, with a peak prevalence around the age of 30, and affects men more frequently (two men for every woman). The incidence is estimated at around 50 cases per 100,000 inhabitants, with a recent increase likely due to a greater awareness of eosinophilic esophagitis.”
Food Blockages
How does this disease manifest itself? “Patients often seek medical attention due to food blockages, typically with meat or bread, which can remain stuck for several hours. These recurring blockages may necessitate emergency room visits, though sometimes no intervention is needed as the blockage resolves on its own,” explains Professor Roman.
“Other symptoms include persistent difficulty swallowing solids and, in some cases, acid reflux or chest pain during swallowing.” Left untreated, eosinophilic esophagitis can lead to complications.
“The primary concern is that inflammation of the esophagus can lead to fibrosis. The good news is that there are now treatments—both therapeutic and dietary management—that allow for complete regression of symptoms and inflammation, with a return to a normal esophagus. However, this requires ongoing maintenance as the disease is chronic.”
Promoting Diagnosis
Patients often develop avoidance strategies and adapt to their condition, allowing the disease to progress without treatment. This is what Professor Roman confirms.
“Patients adjust their diet and lifestyle to avoid blockages, favoring foods that are easy to swallow and avoiding meals outside the home.”
It is crucial, according to our specialist, “to recognize that food blockages are not normal and require a medical consultation. An endoscopy will be performed to establish the diagnosis and potentially implement effective treatment. While this disease progresses insidiously without the patient noticing, it requires proper management to avoid complications and improve the quality of life of patients.”
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic disease, and treatment involves continuous monitoring. Treatments must be continued over time according to the doctor’s recommendations to prevent relapses, which can occur a few weeks after stopping treatment.
This disease, first described in the 1990s, is currently the subject of significant research to further develop and optimize treatment.
S’informer
For more information on the disease, a new website has recently launched. It features a section with 5 questions that can help you determine if you should seek medical advice.
You will also have access to numerous resources on the disease, its diagnosis, and its management, including practical sections on how to manage daily life with eosinophilic esophagitis: https://oesophagite.fr/
Source: Interview with Professor Sabine Roman, May 2024
Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A Growing Concern
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an inflammatory disease of the esophagus, often triggered by food allergens, causing difficulty swallowing and food blockages. The condition primarily affects young people, with a peak incidence around the age of 30, and men are more likely to be affected than women (two men for every woman). While the exact cause of EoE is unknown, it is thought to be a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors, including exposure to allergens and certain foods.
Understanding the Symptoms
EoE can manifest in various ways, making diagnosis challenging. Here are some common symptoms:
- Food Blockages: One of the most prominent signs is the feeling of food, particularly meat or bread, getting stuck in the esophagus. These blockages can persist for several hours and may necessitate emergency room visits, although they often resolve on their own.
- Difficulty Swallowing Solids: Persistent difficulty swallowing solids is another hallmark of EoE, creating challenges with mealtimes and food choices.
- Acid Reflux and Chest Pain: Some individuals may experience acid reflux or chest pain upon swallowing.
It is crucial to remember that these symptoms could be indicative of other conditions. It is essential to seek medical advice if you experience any of these situations to rule out other possibilities and receive a proper diagnosis.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
The insidious nature of EoE can lead to delayed diagnosis as people often adapt their lifestyle and diet to avoid blockages, unknowingly exacerbating the condition. Professor Sabine Roman, gastroenterologist at the Hospices Civils de Lyon, emphasizes the importance of recognizing that food blockages are not normal and require a medical consultation.
“Patients adapt their diet and lifestyle to avoid blockages, favoring foods that are easy to swallow and avoiding meals outside the home,” explains Professor Roman. “It’s vital to understand that food blockages, especially recurring ones, are a sign that something is wrong. Seeking medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and improve quality of life.”
Diagnostic Procedures and Treatment Options
A diagnosis of EoE is generally made through an endoscopy, a procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus to visualize the lining. Biopsies may be taken to confirm the presence of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the esophagus, a hallmark of EoE.
Treatment options for EoE aim to reduce inflammation and improve swallowing difficulties. The primary treatment approaches include:
- Dietary Management: This involves identifying and eliminating trigger foods, which often include milk, wheat, soy, eggs, fish, nuts, and shellfish.
- Medication: Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and topical corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
- Allergy Testing: Understanding specific food triggers is essential for long-term management. Allergy testing, including skin prick tests and blood tests, can help identify triggers with greater accuracy.
Understanding the Long-Term Impact
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic condition, meaning it requires ongoing management. Even with effective treatment, the risk of relapses remains, often appearing within weeks of stopping treatment. It is crucial to follow the doctor’s recommendations regarding medication and dietary modifications to prevent further complications and maintain a good quality of life.
The Importance of Research and Awareness
While EoE was first described relatively recently, in the 1990s, researchers are making significant strides in understanding and treating the disease. Ongoing research aims to develop more effective treatments, gain a deeper insight into the underlying mechanisms, and ultimately improve outcomes for patients.
Raising awareness and promoting early diagnosis are essential for successful management of EoE. This includes educating healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public about the disease, its symptoms, and its impact on quality of life.
Where to Find More Information
A dedicated website, https://oesophagite.fr/, provides comprehensive information on eosinophilic esophagitis. This resource features detailed information about diagnosis, management, and practical tips for living with EoE. The site also includes a section with five questions that can help individuals determine whether they should consult a physician.
Staying informed and actively managing your condition is key to living well with EoE.
Note: This resource is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.