An Update on Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Etiological Factors, Coexisting Diseases, and Complications

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an immune-mediated clinicopathological condition characterized by esophageal infiltration with eosinophils resulting in chronic inflammation and stricture. <b><i>Summary:</i></b> The recent increase in the incidence of EoE and the characteristic presentation of symptoms with difficulty swallowing and food bolus impaction has raised key concerns of clinicians as well as researchers. EoE often presents with dysphagia, food impaction, nausea, regurgitation or vomiting, and decreased appetite. It is more common in males, affecting both adults and children. The causative manner of this condition is complex and multifactorial. Throughout recent years, researchers have made a significant contribution to understanding the pathogenesis of EoE, genetic background, natural history, work on allergy, and standardization in the evaluation of disease activity. There is relatively high prevalence of EoE among the population, emphasizing the importance of this disease. <b><i>Key messages:</i></b> Esophageal involvement with eosinophils may be manifested as isolated or with coexisting conditions and should be taken into consideration in the differential diagnosis. This study aimed to provide gastroenterologists with novel insights into the evaluation of esophageal involvement with eosinophils and to pay special attention to the etiological factors, coexisting clinical diseases, and complications.