Eosinophilic esophagitis  in pediatric age, state of the art and review of the literature.

Eosinophilic esophagitis in pediatric age, state of the art and review of the literature. Acta Biomed. 2018 Dec 17;89(8-S):20-26 Authors: Iuliano S, Minelli R, Vincenzi F, Gaiani F, Ruberto C, Leandro G, Bizzarri B, Nouvenne A, Di Mario F, De'Angelis GL Abstract Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated relapsing disease caused by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa which is normally lacking these cells. EoE belongs to the group of the so called Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders (EGIDs). From a rare and unusual disease, EoE has become an emerging entity and in recent years its incidence and prevalence have increased all over the world, also in children. The pathogenesis is very complex and still not completely clear. Esophageal disfunction symptoms (e.g. dysphagia and food impaction) represent the typical manifestation of EoE and this condition could be difficult to recognize, more in pediatric age than in adults. Moreover, symptoms can often overlap with those of gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), leading to a delayed diagnosis. EoE is often related to atopy and an allergological evaluation is recommended. Untreated EoE could provoke complications such as strictures, esophageal rings, narrowing of the esophagus. Diagnosis is confirmed by the demonstration in biopsy specimens obtained through upper endoscopy of eosinophilic inflammation (>15 for high powered field) of the esophageal mu...
Source: Acta Bio-Medica : Atenei Parmensis - Category: General Medicine Authors: Tags: Acta Biomed Source Type: research