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Ahmed NAF, Amer HAM, Ibrahim DA, El-Zayyadi IAEH. Prevalence of esophageal eosinophilia in patients referred for diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. EGYPTIAN LIVER JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s43066-021-00126-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Several conditions are associated with esophageal eosinophilia such as eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). The aim of this study was to detect the prevalence of esophageal eosinophilia in patients with upper gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms referred for diagnostic upper GI endoscopy. This study included 86 patients who underwent upper GI endoscopy and biopsies.
Results
Esophageal eosinophilia EE was found in 26 patients (30.2%): 3 patients (3.5%) had EoE and 23 patients (26.7%) had low-grade esophageal eosinophilia. The most common presenting symptoms were heart burn in 84 patients (97.7%) and upper abdominal pain in 78 patients (90.7%). Reflux esophagitis (ERD) was observed in 18.6% of patients. In histopathological examination, EoE was found in 3.5%, mild reflux esophagitis in 37.2%, and severe reflux esophagitis in 16.3%. There is statistically significant correlation between EE and male sex, hypertension, dysphagia, hiatus hernia, incompetent cardia, and fixed rings. Age, incompetent cardia, and dysphagia were statistically significant independent predictors of low-grade EE.
Conclusion
Esophageal eosinophilia EE was found in 30.2% of patients: 3.5% had eosinophilic esophagitis EoE and 26.7% had low-grade esophageal eosinophilia.
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De Matteis A, Pagliaro G, Corleto VD, Pacchiarotti C, Di Giulio E, Villa MP, Parisi P, Vassallo F, Ziparo C, Di Nardo G. Eosinophilic Esophagitis in Children: Clinical Findings and Diagnostic Approach. Curr Pediatr Rev 2020; 16:206-214. [PMID: 31584371 PMCID: PMC8193808 DOI: 10.2174/1573396315666191004110549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2019] [Revised: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an emerging chronic immune and antigen-mediated clinicopathologic disease. During the last 2 decades, the incidence of this condition in children has increased significantly, thanks to practitioners for creating the awareness and higher use of diagnostic endoscopy. We have analysed paediatric literature on EoE focusing on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical findings and diagnostic approach. EoE is pathogenically related to a Th2 inflammation characterized by a mixed IgE and non-IgEmediated reaction to food and/or environmental agents. This leads to esophageal dysfunction and remodeling accompanied by subepithelial fibrosis. EoE can be presented with several range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including regurgitation, vomiting, feeding difficulties or feeding refusal in infants and toddlers, as well as heartburn, dysphagia and food bolus impaction in older children and adults. The diagnostic suspicion is based on the presence of chronic symptoms of esophgeal dysfunction and esophageal eosinophilia characterised histologically by a significant eosinophilic infiltration of the oesophageal mucosa (>15 eosinophils per high powered field). In this review, we will provide an update on clinical presentation and diagnostic approach to EoE in children. We emphasized on the relevant aspects of the new clinical condition termed "PPI responsive esophageal eosinophilia", as entities distinct from EoE and the role of PPI trial in the diagnostic workup, therefore we proposed a new diagnostic algorithm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Giovanni Di Nardo
- Address correspondence to this author at the Chair of Pediatrics, NESMOS Department, School of Medicine and Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, Via di Grottarossa 1035-1039, 00189 - Rome, Italy; Tel: +393397267637; E-mail:
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Jalota L, Allison DR, Prajapati V, Vempilly JJ, Jain VV. Ability of Exhaled Nitric Oxide to Discriminate for Airflow Obstruction Among Frequent Exacerbators of Clinically Diagnosed Asthma. Lung 2018; 196:455-462. [PMID: 29916097 DOI: 10.1007/s00408-018-0132-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) has been proposed as a non-invasive biomarker for allergic inflammation seen in asthma. Many asthmatics in clinical practice have never had spirometry and recent data report misdiagnoses in patients with physician diagnosed (PD) asthma. The aim of this study was to assess the ability of FENO to discriminate between those with and without airflow obstruction (AO) among patients with PD-asthma. METHODS Frequent exacerbators of PD-asthma (with 2 or more asthma exacerbations leading to emergency room visit or hospitalization within last 12 months) were enrolled. All patients underwent diagnostic evaluations including spirometry, FENO testing and serum immunoglobulin (IgE) and eosinophils. Serial spirometry and methacholine challenge testing (MCT) were performed as indicated. AO was defined by a decreased FEV1/FVC ratio (< 70% and/or < LLN), or a positive MCT. RESULTS Of the 222 patients with PD-asthma, AO was found in 136 (vs. 86 without AO). 81.6% of patients with AO and 66.2% without AO completed FENO testing. There was no significant difference in the mean FENO levels among patients with or without AO (40.8 vs. 30.4 ppb, P = 0.10). Likewise, there was no difference in the serum IgE levels and serum eosinophils. CONCLUSIONS Our analyses suggest that FENO levels do not help discriminate between those with and without AO in patients with PD-asthma. Patients who experience symptoms of asthma may have elevated FENO levels above the suggested cut points of 20-25 ppb. Objective confirmation of AO should be considered in all patients with PD-asthma, irrespective of FENO levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leena Jalota
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
| | - D Richard Allison
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
- Community Regional Medical Center, Fresno, CA, USA
| | - Vinisha Prajapati
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
| | - Jose J Vempilly
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA
| | - Vipul V Jain
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA.
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of California, San Francisco-Fresno, 155 N Fresno St, Fresno, CA, 93701, USA.
- Community Regional Medical Center, Fresno, CA, USA.
- Chronic Lung Disease Program, University of California, San Francisco, Fresno, 2823, Fresno St, Suite A, Fresno, CA, 93721, USA.
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Patel RV, Hirano I. New Developments in the Diagnosis, Therapy, and Monitoring of Eosinophilic Esophagitis. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN GASTROENTEROLOGY 2018; 16:15-26. [PMID: 29357016 PMCID: PMC5843552 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-018-0167-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has transformed over the past two decades from a little-known entity to a significant cause of morbidity in the adult and pediatric population. We reviewed the most recent advancements in the diagnosis, therapy, and long-term monitoring of EoE. RECENT FINDINGS Based on clinical, endoscopic, histologic, immunologic, and genetic similarities, there is growing consensus to move away from distinguishing proton pump inhibitor responsive esophageal eosinophilia as an entity distinct from EoE. An increasing number of studies have identified duration of untreated disease as an important determinant of esophageal stricture formation. New approaches to the empiric elimination diet including one, two, four, and step-up protocols were developed to reduce the need for repeated endoscopies during reintroduction of food triggers. Topical steroids remain the mainstay of medical therapy but newer formulations are under development to optimize esophageal delivery. Novel, disease activity monitoring techniques are being evaluated that assess esophageal inflammatory activity without the need for endoscopy. Understanding of EoE has increased remarkably from the first identification of the disease. The underlying pathogenesis continues to be explored leading to shifts in diagnostic criteria as well as novel therapeutic targets. Innovative methods to monitor disease are under investigation and more research is needed to understand the natural history of EoE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronak Vashi Patel
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 North Saint Clair, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Ikuo Hirano
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 676 North Saint Clair, Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
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Abstract
Over the past decades eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has been increasingly diagnosed, and significant progress has been made in our understanding of its pathophysiology. As EoE cannot be cured yet, treatment goals are suppression of disease activity and symptoms as well as the prevention of progression to a more severe disease phenotype. Disease-modifying treatment options can be divided into dietary therapy and immunosuppressive medications, of which topical steroids have been most investigated, yet are still prescribed off-label. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in our understanding of EoE and discuss the mechanisms of action of current treatment options, with emphasis on the role of the esophageal epithelial barrier and the effects of proton-pump inhibitors in the management of patients with EoE.
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Kern E, Lin D, Larson A, Yang GY, Taft T, Zalewski A, Gonsalves N, Hirano I. Prospective assessment of the diagnostic utility of esophageal brushings in adults with eosinophilic esophagitis. Dis Esophagus 2016; 29:48-53. [PMID: 25515533 DOI: 10.1111/dote.12304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Patients with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) undergo multiple endoscopies with biopsy for both diagnosis and assessment of treatment response, which is inconvenient and costly. Brush cytology has been examined in Barrett's esophagus to reduce the need for repeated endoscopic biopsies. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the ability of brush cytology to detect mucosal eosinophilia in patients with EoE. This prospective study included adults with untreated and treated esophageal eosinophilia undergoing endoscopy at a tertiary care center. Patients received paired brushings and biopsies at the proximal and distal esophagus. A blinded pathologist quantified the number of eosinophils and epithelial cells per high-power field (hpf) on the cytology slides. The ratio of eosinophils/epithelial cells was used to normalize the cytology specimens for density of cells collected. The main outcome measures were sensitivity and specificity of brush cytology, and correlation between cytology and histology. Twenty-eight patients enrolled. The average age of the cohort was 37.7 ± 10.4 years; 75% of subjects were male. The sensitivity of cytology was 67-69% at the proximal esophagus and 70-72% at the distal esophagus. The specificity was 61-67% proximally and 70-75% distally. Histology was not significantly correlated with the max ratio of eosinophils/epithelial cells per hpf or the absolute number of eosinophils on cytology slides. Cytology using esophageal brushing has limited sensitivity and specificity for the detection of esophageal mucosal eosinophilia. The presence of exudates on endoscopy increased the detection of eosinophilia, which could make cytology useful in pediatric EoE, which often has a more exudative presentation. Diagnostic yield may improve with alternative acquisition techniques or the incorporation of eosinophil degranulation proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Kern
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - D Lin
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - A Larson
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - G-Y Yang
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - T Taft
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - A Zalewski
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - N Gonsalves
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - I Hirano
- Division of Gastroenterology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Fuentes S, de Vos WM. How to Manipulate the Microbiota: Fecal Microbiota Transplantation. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2016; 902:143-53. [PMID: 27161356 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-31248-4_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a rather straightforward therapy that manipulates the human gastrointestinal (GI) microbiota, by which a healthy donor microbiota is transferred into an existing but disturbed microbial ecosystem. This is a natural process that occurs already at birth; infants are rapidly colonized by a specific microbial community, the composition of which strongly depends on the mode of delivery and which therefore most likely originates from the mother (Palmer et al. 2007; Tannock et al. 1990). Since this early life microbial community already contains most, if not all, of the predominantly anaerobic microbes that are only found in the GI tract, it is reasonable to assume that early life colonization is the ultimate natural fecal transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Fuentes
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 10, 6703, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Willem M de Vos
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Wageningen University, Dreijenplein 10, 6703, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Kia L, Hirano I. Distinguishing GERD from eosinophilic oesophagitis: concepts and controversies. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2015; 12:379-386. [PMID: 25986303 PMCID: PMC4948861 DOI: 10.1038/nrgastro.2015.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Over the past three decades, the detection of oesophageal mucosal eosinophils has transitioned from a biomarker of GERD to a diagnostic criterion for eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE). In GERD, oesophageal eosinophils are considered part of the chronic inflammatory response to acid reflux, whereas the marked eosinophilia in EoE is viewed as a central feature of the immune response to ingested food and/or environmental antigen stimulation. Descriptions of a considerable subset of patients with symptomatic, endoscopic and histological findings of EoE that resolve with PPI therapy has led to confusion and controversy regarding the distinction of EoE from GERD. Study findings indicate that PPI-responsive oesophageal eosinophilia (PPI-REE) more closely resembles EoE than GERD, both from a clinical and immunological aspect. Although responsiveness to PPI therapy should not be utilized to exclude EoE, PPI therapy is effective at reducing oesophageal eosinophilia in ∼40% of patients, and PPI therapy is both a safe and practical initial step in the management of patients with oesophageal eosinophilia. Ongoing studies elucidating the mechanism behind PPI-REE will improve our understanding and management of EoE. In this Review, the mechanisms and evidence that underlie the controversy in the distinction between GERD and EoE are evaluated.
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Abstract
In eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), diagnostic tests aid in the identification of pathophysiologic consequences and accurate detection of the disease. The EoE Endoscopic Reference Score (EREFS) classifies and grades the severity of the five major endoscopically identified esophageal features of EoE (edema, rings, exudates, furrows and strictures). The EREFS may be useful in the evaluation of disease severity and as an objective outcome of response to therapy. pH monitoring identifies the presence of abnormal degrees of acid exposure in the esophagus that characterizes gastroesophageal reflux disease. The presence of acid reflux, however, does not indicate that the reflux is responsible for esophageal eosinophilia. Esophageal manometry has not demonstrated a characteristic abnormality with sufficient sensitivity to make the test of diagnostic value in clinical practice. On the other hand, manometric characteristics of esophageal pressurization and longitudinal muscle dysfunction may help identify important pathophysiologic consequences of EoE. Esophageal impedance testing has demonstrated increased baseline mucosal impedance that correlates with increased epithelial permeability in EoE. Reduced mucosal integrity may provide intraluminal allergens access to antigen-presenting cells, serving as an early event in the pathogenesis of EoE. The functional luminal impedance probe (FLIP) provides quantitative assessment of esophageal mural compliance, a physiologic correlate of remodeling in EoE. Studies using FLIP have associated reductions in esophageal distensibility in EoE with the important outcome of food impaction risk. Finally, confocal endomicroscopy, multiphoton fluorescence microscopy and novel eosinophil-enhancing contrast agents are emerging methods that may allow for in vivo visualization of esophageal eosinophilic inflammation, thereby improving the detection and understanding of this emerging disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikuo Hirano
- Division of Gastroenterology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Ill., USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Whereas most children and adults respond to traditional eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) treatments, such as exclusion of dietary allergens or the use of topical steroids, a small fraction may not. METHODS Based on clinical experience and a review of the literature, the aim of this work is to provide practical advice for caring for 'refractory' patients with EoE. RESULTS The approach to this type of patient continues to evolve and decision-making should consider a number of issues including the patient's age, lack of a complete understanding of the natural history of this disease, risks of monitoring, and side effects of treatments. Next, one needs to define the term 'refractory' in that this can refer either to persistent symptoms or to continued inflammation in the face of presumably effective drug or diet therapy. Before considering alternative treatments, it is important to rule out any other cause of persistent symptoms. For instance, could they be related to an occult esophageal narrowing not identified at the time of endoscopy? Esophagrams may be necessary to identify localized or longitudinal narrowing that could be amenable to dilation. If symptoms and inflammation persist and no narrowing is appreciated, an elemental diet can be considered; however, the long-term use of this in older children and adults may be difficult. Prednisone or systemic steroids may be indicated to induce remission, but side effects and complications associated with chronic use are limiting. Finally, the use of immunosuppression or biological agents has been reported in case reports and studies; use of these may be limited by side effects or the need to utilize compassionate use protocols. CONCLUSIONS As the scope of esophageal eosinophilia continues to evolve, the clinical and molecular characterization of new clinical phenotypes will be important so that new therapeutic targets can be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent A. Mukkada
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati Center for Eosinophilic Disorder, Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Interdisciplinary Feeding Team, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
| | - Glenn T. Furuta
- Digestive Health Institute, Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Children's Hospital Colorado, Gastrointestinal Eosinophilic Diseases Program, Department of Pediatrics, Mucosal Inflammation Program, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO
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Shashidhar H, Tolia V. Esophagitis in children: an update on current pharmacotherapy. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2013; 14:2475-87. [PMID: 24138403 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2013.847921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A common diagnostic entity in children is Esophagitis with multiple etiologies and complex immuno-pathogenic mechanisms. Our understanding of these mechanisms and of the pharmacotherapy of esophagitis is still evolving. AREAS COVERED Areas of focus for this review were chosen based on recent clinical practice and research interest in esophagitis in infants and children. A literature search was conducted with the relevant keywords ('gastroesophageal reflux disease' in pediatric age group, 'eosinophilia', 'esophageal eosinophilia', 'esophagitis', 'eosinophilic esophagitis', 'proton pump inhibitors'). Use, safety and efficacy of proton pump inhibitors in young infants and older children, the concepts of esophageal eosinophilia and overlap of reflux and eosinophilic esophagitis are discussed here. EXPERT OPINION Proton pump inhibitors are effective in healing reflux esophagitis in children of all ages but do not improve gastroesophageal reflux related symptoms in infants. An overlap in clinical and histological features of reflux and eosinophilic esophagitis exists, and proton pump inhibitors may exert their action in pathways other than just acid suppression. The role of weakly acidic/alkaline reflux in gastroesophageal reflux symptoms, development of newer reflux modifying medications and tools to assess efficacy of therapeutic intervention in eosinophilic esophagitis are promising areas for further research and developing knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harohalli Shashidhar
- Elliot Hospital, New Hampshire Hospital for Children, Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition , Manchester, NH 03109 , USA
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van Rhijn BD, Kessing BF, Smout AJPM, Bredenoord AJ. Oesophageal baseline impedance values are decreased in patients with eosinophilic oesophagitis. United European Gastroenterol J 2013; 1:242-8. [PMID: 24917968 PMCID: PMC4040791 DOI: 10.1177/2050640613496411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastro-oesophageal reflux has been suggested to play a role in eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoO). Oesophageal acid exposure decreases baseline intraluminal impedance, a marker of mucosal integrity, in patients with gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD). OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to assess oesophageal baseline impedance levels in EoO patients and to investigate their relationship with oesophageal acid exposure. METHODS Ambulatory 24-h pH-impedance monitoring was performed in 11 EoO patients and in 11 healthy controls with matched oesophageal acid exposure. We assessed baseline impedance levels in the distal, mid-, and proximal oesophageal impedance channels. RESULTS BASELINE IMPEDANCE LEVELS IN EOO PATIENTS WERE MARKEDLY LOWER COMPARED TO CONTROLS IN THE DISTAL OESOPHAGUS (MEDIAN (INTERQUARTILE RANGE): 988 (757-1978) vs. 2259 (1767-2896) Ω, p = 0.015), mid-oesophagus (1420 (836-2164) vs. 2614 (2374-3879) Ω, p = 0.003), and proximal oesophagus (1856 (1006-2625) vs. 2868 (2397-3439) Ω, p = 0.005). Whereas baseline impedance decreased from proximal to distal in healthy subjects (p = 0.037), no such gradient was seen in EoO patients (p = 0.123). CONCLUSIONS Throughout the oesophagus, baseline impedance values are decreased in EoO patients, indicating impaired mucosal integrity. Our findings suggest that factors other than acid reflux are the cause of low baseline impedance in EoO.
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Galindo G, Vassalle J, Marcus SN, Triadafilopoulos G. Multimodality evaluation of patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms who have failed empiric proton pump inhibitor therapy. Dis Esophagus 2013; 26:443-50. [PMID: 22862422 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2050.2012.01381.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Patients with symptoms suggestive of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), such as chest pain, heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia, are typically treated initially with a course of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The evaluation of patients who have either not responded at all or partially and inadequately responded to such therapy requires a more detailed history and may involve an endoscopy and esophageal biopsies, followed by esophageal manometry, ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring, and gastric emptying scanning. To assess the merits of a multimodality 'structural' and 'functional' assessment of the esophagus in patients who have inadequately controlled GERD symptoms despite using empiric PPI, a retrospective cohort study of patients without any response or with poor symptomatic control to empiric PPI (>2 months duration) who were referred to an Esophageal Studies Unit was conducted. Patients were studied using symptom questionnaires, endoscopy (+ or - for erosive disease, or Barrett's metaplasia) and multilevel esophageal biopsies (eosinophilia, metaplasia), esophageal motility (aperistalsis, dysmotility), 24-hour ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring (+ if % total time pH < 4 > 5%), and gastric emptying scanning (+ if >10% retention at 4 hours and >70% at 2 hours). Over 3 years, 275 patients (147 men and 128 women) aged 16-89 years underwent complete multimodality testing. Forty percent (n= 109) had nonerosive reflux disease (esophagogastroduodenoscopy [EGD]-, biopsy-, pH+); 19.3% (n= 53) had erosive esophagitis (EGD+); 5.5% (n= 15) Barrett's esophagus (EGD+, metaplasia+); 5.5% (n= 15) eosinophilic esophagitis (biopsy+); 2.5% (n= 7) had achalasia and 5.8% (n= 16) other dysmotility (motility+, pH-); 16% (n= 44) had functional heartburn (EGD-, pH-), and 5.8% (n= 16) had gastroparesis (gastric scan+). Cumulative symptom scores for chest pain, heartburn, regurgitation, and dysphagia were similar among the groups (mean range 1.1-1.35 on a 0-3 scale). Multimodality evaluation changed the diagnosis of GERD in 34.5% of cases and led to or guided alternative therapies in 42%. Overlap diagnoses were frequent: 10/15 (67%) of patients with eosinophilic esophagitis, 12/16 (75%) of patients with gastroparesis, and 11/23 (48%) of patients with achalasia or dysmotility had concomitant pathologic acid reflux by pH studies. Patients with persistent GERD symptoms despite empiric PPI therapy benefit from multimodality evaluation that may change the diagnosis and guide therapy in more than one third of such cases. Because symptoms are not specific and overlap diagnoses are frequent and multifaceted, objective evidence-driven therapies should be considered in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Galindo
- El Camino GI Medical Associates, Mountain View, California, USA
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Moawad FJ, Veerappan GR, Dias JA, Baker TP, Maydonovitch CL, Wong RKH. Randomized controlled trial comparing aerosolized swallowed fluticasone to esomeprazole for esophageal eosinophilia. Am J Gastroenterol 2013; 108:366-72. [PMID: 23399553 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2012.443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Patients with clinical symptoms of esophageal dysfunction and dense eosinophilic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa are suspected to have eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Topical steroids are often used as first-line therapy for EoE, although some patients respond clinically to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). The purpose of this study was to compare the histological and clinical response of patients with esophageal eosinophilia treated with aerosolized swallowed fluticasone propionate vs. esomeprazole. METHODS This prospective single-blinded randomized controlled trial enrolled newly diagnosed patients with suspected EoE, defined as having clinical symptoms related to esophageal dysfunction with at least 15 eosinophils/high power field (hpf). Patients underwent 24-h pH/impedance monitoring to establish gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Patients were stratified by the presence of GERD and randomized to receive fluticasone 440 mcg twice daily or esomeprazole 40 mg once daily for 8 weeks followed by repeat endoscopy with biopsies. The primary outcome was histological response of esophageal eosinophilia, defined as <7 eosinophils/hpf. Secondary outcomes included clinical change in symptoms using the validated Mayo dysphagia questionnaire (MDQ) and interval change in endoscopic findings following treatment. RESULTS Forty-two patients (90% male, 81% white, mean age 38 ± 10 years) were randomized into fluticasone (n = 21) and esomeprazole (n = 21) treatment arms. In all, 19% (8/42) of patients had coexisting GERD and were equally stratified into each arm (n = 4). Overall, there was no significant difference in resolution of esophageal eosinophilia between fluticasone and esomeprazole (19 vs. 33%, P = 0.484). In patients with established GERD, resolution of esophageal eosinophilia was noted in 0% (0/4) of the fluticasone group compared with 100% (4/4) of the esomeprazole group (P = 0.029). In GERD-negative patients, there was no significant difference in resolution of esophageal eosinophilia between treatment arms with fluticasone and esomeprazole (24 vs.18%, P = 1.00). The MDQ score significantly decreased after treatment with esomeprazole (19 ± 21 vs. 1.4 ± 4.5, P<0.001), but not with fluticasone (17 ± 18 vs. 12 ± 16, P = 0.162). Improvement in endoscopic findings and other histological markers were similar between treatment groups. CONCLUSIONS Fluticasone and esomeprazole provide a similar histological response for esophageal eosinophilia. With regard to clinical response, esomeprazole was superior to fluticasone, particularly in patients with established GERD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fouad J Moawad
- Department of Medicine, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Gastroenterology Service, Bethesda, Maryland 20889, USA.
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van Rhijn BD, Verheij J, Smout AJPM, Bredenoord AJ. Rapidly increasing incidence of eosinophilic esophagitis in a large cohort. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2013; 25:47-52.e5. [PMID: 22963642 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent literature has shown increasing incidence and prevalence rates of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). However, data are mainly based on small studies and come from centers dedicated to EoE. Aim of this study was to estimate the incidence rates of EoE by using a large database. METHODS We performed a cross-sectional study of the pathology reports describing esophageal eosinophilia from 1996 through 2010, using the nationwide network and registry of histo- and cytopathology in The Netherlands (PALGA). All histopathology reports nationwide enter this database. We classified cases according to the diagnosis made by the pathologist. Annual incidence rates of EoE were estimated. KEY RESULTS Our search criteria yielded 8838 positive pathology reports. Eosinophilic esophagitis was diagnosed in 674 patients, of which 74% were men. In another 174 patients, no distinction was made between eosinophilia caused by gastro-esophageal reflux disease or EoE. The incidence of EoE increased considerably over the years, being 0.01 in 1996, 0.01 in 2000, 0.14 in 2005, and 1.31 per 100,000 persons in 2010. Eosinophilic esophagitis was diagnosed in all age groups, but in 2010 the highest incidence was seen in 20-29 years old males, in whom it was estimated to be 3.23 per 100,000 persons. The incidence in children was 0.73 per 100,000 in 2010. No seasonal variation in diagnosis of EoE was observed. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES In this large study, we found robust data on increasing incidence rates of pediatric and adult EoE in the past 15 years. This rapidly increasing incidence has not reached a plateau yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- B D van Rhijn
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Dellon ES, Chen X, Miller CR, Woosley JT, Shaheen NJ. Diagnostic utility of major basic protein, eotaxin-3, and leukotriene enzyme staining in eosinophilic esophagitis. Am J Gastroenterol 2012; 107:1503-1511. [PMID: 22777338 PMCID: PMC3744826 DOI: 10.1038/ajg.2012.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Features of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) overlap. We aimed to determine whether staining for tissue biomarkers would differentiate EoE from GERD, suggesting utility for diagnosis of EoE. METHODS In this case-control study, EoE patients defined by consensus guidelines were compared to GERD patients with eosinophils on esophageal biopsy. Immunohistochemistry was performed for major basic protein (MBP), eotaxin-3, leukotriene A4 hydrolase (LTA4H), and leukotriene C4 synthase (LTC4S). After masking, the maximum staining density (cells per mm(2)) was quantified for each marker and compared between groups. Receiver operator characteristic curves were constructed, and the area under the curve (AUC) calculated to assess the diagnostic utility of each of the biomarkers alone and in combination with eosinophil counts. RESULTS There were 51 EoE cases (mean age 24; mean 143 eosinophils per high-power field (eos per h.p.f.)) and 54 GERD controls (mean age 34; mean 20 eos per h.p.f.). The MBP density was higher in EoE than in GERD (1479 vs. 59 cells per mm(2); P<0.001), as was the eotaxin-3 density (2219 vs. 479; P<0.001). There were no differences for LTA4H and LTC4S. MBP density and eosinophil count correlated (R=0.81; P<0.001); correlation with eotaxin-3 was weaker (R=0.25; P=0.01). The AUC for diagnosis of EoE was 0.96 for MBP, 0.87 for eotaxin-3, 0.58 for LTA4H, 0.66 for LTC4S, and 0.99 for the combination of MBP, eotaxin-3, and eosinophil count. CONCLUSIONS Patients with EoE had substantially higher levels of MBP and eotaxin-3 staining than GERD patients. These markers may have utility as a diagnostic assay for EoE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan S Dellon
- Center for Esophageal Diseases and Swallowing, Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.
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Ma J, Altomare A, Guarino M, Cicala M, Rieder F, Fiocchi C, Li D, Cao W, Behar J, Biancani P, Harnett KM. HCl-induced and ATP-dependent upregulation of TRPV1 receptor expression and cytokine production by human esophageal epithelial cells. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2012; 303:G635-G645. [PMID: 22790593 PMCID: PMC3468560 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00097.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/21/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remains elusive, but recent evidence suggests that early secretion of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines by the mucosa leads to influx of immune cells followed by tissue damage. We previously showed that exposure of esophageal mucosa to HCl causes ATP release, resulting in activation of acetyl-CoA:1-O-alkyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine acetyltransferase (lyso-PAF AT), the enzyme responsible for the production of platelet-activating factor (PAF). In addition, HCl causes release of IL-8 from the esophageal mucosa. We demonstrate that esophageal epithelial cells secrete proinflammatory mediators in response to HCl and that this response is mediated by ATP. Monolayers of the human esophageal epithelial cell line HET-1A were exposed to acidified cell culture medium (pH 5) for 12 min, a total of seven times over 48 h, to simulate the recurrent acid exposure clinically occurring in GERD. HCl upregulated mRNA and protein expression for the acid-sensing transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily vanilloid member 1 (TRPV1), lyso-PAF AT, IL-8, eotaxin-1, -2, and -3, macrophage inflammatory protein-1α, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. The chemokine profile secreted by HET-1A cells in response to repeated HCl exposure parallels similar findings in erosive esophagitis patients. In HET-1A cells, the TRPV1 agonist capsaicin reproduced these findings for mRNA of the inflammatory mediators lyso-PAF AT, IL-8, and eotaxin-1. These effects were blocked by the TRPV1 antagonists iodoresiniferatoxin and JNJ-17203212. These effects were imitated by direct application of ATP and blocked by the nonselective ATP antagonist suramin. We conclude that HCl/TRPV-induced ATP release upregulated secretion of various chemoattractants by esophageal epithelial cells. These chemoattractants are selective for leukocyte subsets involved in acute inflammatory responses and allergic inflammation. The data support the validity of HET-1A cells as a model of the response of the human esophageal mucosa in GERD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Ma
- Department of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Kidambi T, Toto E, Ho N, Taft T, Hirano I. Temporal trends in the relative prevalence of dysphagia etiologies from 1999-2009. World J Gastroenterol 2012; 18:4335-41. [PMID: 22969196 PMCID: PMC3436048 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i32.4335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2012] [Revised: 07/30/2012] [Accepted: 08/03/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To examine the relative prevalence and temporal variation of dysphagia etiologies in patients undergoing upper endoscopy (EGD) over the past decade.
METHODS: EGDs with the indication of dysphagia at an urban, university medical center in 1999, 2004 and 2009 were retrospectively identified from the electronic medical record. The entire patient chart, including EGD, pathology, manometry, radiographic and clinician reports, was reviewed for demographic and clinical data and to determine the etiology of dysphagia. The number of EGDs in which an esophageal biopsy was performed was also noted. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as a cause of dysphagia independent of peptic stricture was defined by symptoms with erosive esophagitis or symptom response to proton pump inhibition (PPI). Cases of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) were defined by an appropriate clinical history and histological criteria of ≥ 15 eosinophils per high powered field. PPI-responsive esophageal eosinophilia was not routinely reported prior to 2008. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance to analyze for trends between 1999, 2004 and 2009 and a post-hoc Tukey analysis was performed following a significant main effect.
RESULTS: A total of 1371 cases (mean age 54 years, 43% male) met pre-specified inclusion criteria with 191, 504 and 675 cases in 1999, 2004 and 2009, respectively. Patients were older in 2004 compared to 2009 (mean ± SD, 54.0 ± 15.7 years vs 52.3 ± 16.8 years, P = 0.02) and there were more males in 1999 compared to 2004 (57.5% vs 40.8%, P = 0.005). Overall, GERD (27.6%) and EoE (7.7%) were the most common identifiable causes of dysphagia. An unspecified diagnosis accounted for 21% of overall cases. There were no significant differences in the relative prevalence of achalasia or other motility disorders, peptic stricture, Schatzki’s ring, esophageal cancer or unspecified diagnoses over the 10-year time period. There was, however, a decrease in the relative prevalence of GERD (39.3% vs 24.1%, P < 0.001) and increases in the relative prevalence of EoE (1.6% vs 11.2%, P < 0.001) and oropharyngeal disorders (1.6% vs 4.2%, P = 0.02) from 1999 to 2009. Post-hoc analyses determined that the increase in relative prevalence of EoE was significant between 1999 and 2009 as well as 2004 and 2009 (5.4% vs 11.6%, P < 0.001), but not between 1999 and 2004 (1.6% P 5.4%, P = 0.21). On the other hand, the decrease in relative prevalence of GERD was significant between 1999 and 2009 and 1999 and 2004 (39.3% vs 27.7%, P = 0.006), but not between 2004 and 2009 (27.7% vs 24.1%, P = 0.36). There were also significantly more EGDs in which a biopsy was obtained in 1999 compared to 2009 (36.7% vs 68.7%, P < 0.001) as well as between 2004 and 2009 (37.5% vs 68.7%, P < 0.001). While total EGD volume did increase over the 10-year time period, the percentage of EGDs for the indication of dysphagia remained stable making increasing upper endoscopy an unlikely reason for the observed increased prevalence of EoE.
CONCLUSION: EoE has emerged as a dominant cause of dysphagia in adults. Whether this was due to a rise in disease incidence or increased recognition is unclear.
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Altun R, Akbas E, Yıldırım AE, Öcal S, Korkmaz M, Selcuk H. Frequency of eosinophilic esophagitis in patients with esophageal symptoms: a single-center Turkish experience. Dis Esophagus 2012; 26:776-81. [PMID: 22925366 DOI: 10.1111/j.1442-2050.2012.01395.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, immune/antigen-mediated esophageal disease characterized with symptoms related to esophageal dysfunction and eosinophil-predominant inflammation. There has been a dramatic increase in the diagnosis of this disease in recent years. The primary objective of this study was to determine the frequency of EoE in adult patients who were evaluated by gastroenterologists in our clinic with esophageal symptoms. Between November 2010 and May 2011, 311 adult patients who were evaluated in our clinic with esophageal symptoms were enrolled prospectively. All patients underwent endoscopy and had biopsies taken. Gastroesophageal reflux disease was excluded by either proton pump inhibitory treatment or 24-hour ambulatory pH monitorization. The diagnosis was confirmed by one independent pathologist. Frequency of EoE in patients with esophageal symptoms was 2.6% (n = 8; four men and four women). Mean age at diagnosis was 40.2 ± 8 years. Heartburn was the predominant symptom in patients (75% of the patients), and 87.5% (n = 7) of patients had more than one symptom at diagnosis. Nearly 38% of the patients (n = 3) had a history of allergic disease. Endoscopic findings were as follows: transient/fixed esophageal rings (25%), white exudates (25%), and normal appearance (50%). Median number of circulating eosinophils was 208 (93-659)/mm(3) . Median number of intraepithelial eosinophils in proximal-middle 1/3 part and distal 1/3 part of esophagus were 0 (0-50)/hpf and 37 (16-50)/hpf, respectively. In conclusion, EoE is not rare in Turkey, and it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with esophageal symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Altun
- Department of Gastroenterology, Baskent University, Ankara, Turkey
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Hirano I. Therapeutic end points in eosinophilic esophagitis: is elimination of esophageal eosinophils enough? Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol 2012; 10:750-2. [PMID: 22366179 DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2012.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2012] [Accepted: 02/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Holme Ø, Tjora E, Aabakken L. [Eosinophilic oesophagitis]. TIDSSKRIFT FOR DEN NORSKE LEGEFORENING 2011; 131:2470-4. [PMID: 22170132 DOI: 10.4045/tidsskr.11.0417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Eosinophilic oesophagitis is a chronic inflammatory condition in the oesophagus. There has been increasing awareness of this disease in recent years as a common cause of dysfunction of the oesophagus in children and adults. MATERIAL AND METHOD The review is based on a search in PubMed, scrutiny of reference lists and the authors' experience of adults and children with eosinophilic oesophagitis. RESULTS Eosinophilic oesophagitis is being diagnosed increasingly often in western countries. Men are affected three times as often as women. The disease may start at any age, but does so most frequently in children and young adults. Dysphagia and impaction of food in the oesophagus are the most common symptoms in adolescents and adults. In children the commonest symptoms are eating problems, abdominal pain, nausea and retarded growth. In many patients the mechanism behind the condition is probably an allergic reaction in the oesophagus to food, and over half the patients have an atopic disposition. The diagnosis is based on clinical findings, typical findings on endoscopy and eosinophilic granulocytes in the oesophageal mucosa. Treatment possibilities include restriction of diet, locally acting corticosteroids and endoscopic dilatation. INTERPRETATION Eosinophilic oesophagitis is being diagnosed in an increasing number of patients, but it is not certain whether this is due to increased occurrence or increased awareness by doctors. Knowledge of the disease is important because simple endoscopic or medical treatment leads to a good result in most patients, and can prevent complications such as stricture formation and food impaction in the oesophagus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Øyvind Holme
- Medisinsk avdeling, Sørlandet sykehus Kristiansand, og Det medisinske fakultet, Universitetet i Oslo, Norway.
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Hurrell JM, Genta RM, Melton SD. Histopathologic diagnosis of eosinophilic conditions in the gastrointestinal tract. Adv Anat Pathol 2011; 18:335-48. [PMID: 21841404 DOI: 10.1097/pap.0b013e318229bfe2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Eosinophils, a constitutive component of the columnar-lined gastrointestinal tract, play an essential role in allergic responses and parasitic infections. The tissue density of these cells also increases in a variety of conditions of uncertain etiology. With the exception of the esophageal squamous epithelium, in which no eosinophils are normally present, the population of normal eosinophils in the remainder of the luminal gut is poorly defined. Therefore, histopathologists must rely on their subjective judgment to determine when a diagnosis of eosinophilic gastritis, enteritis, or colitis should be rendered. Eosinophilic esophagitis is currently the best defined and most studied eosinophilic condition of the digestive tract; therefore, the confidence in accurate diagnosis is increasing. In contrast, the characteristic clinicopathologic features of eosinophilic conditions affecting other parts of the digestive tract remain somewhat elusive. This review was designed to present pathologists with simple and practical information for the biopsy-based histopathologic diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis, gastritis, enteritis, and colitis. It was prepared by critically reviewing more than 200 articles on the topic, along with incorporating evidence accumulated through our own collective experience. We anticipate that by increasing pathologists' confidence in reporting these abnormal but often nameless eosinophilic infiltrates, we can help better define and characterize their significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Hurrell
- Department of Pathology, VA North Texas Health Care System and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Over the course of the last year, a number of studies have brought new insights into the clinical presentation, pathogenesis, and treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis, some of which will be summarized here. RECENT FINDINGS This swell of research and clinical need resulted in revision of the 2007 Consensus Recommendations. In addition, new insights into key clinicopathological features including symptoms such as feeding dysfunction and histological quantification of eosinophil extracellular granules are presented. The advancement of the field is strongly supported by blinded and placebo-controlled studies of IL-5 and oral viscous budesonide as well as new large studies examining the safety of dilation. SUMMARY Overall, these studies set the stage for new methodologies to understand the pathophysiology of eosinophilic esophagitis and development of novel therapies.
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