Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic inflammatory disease which occurs when large numbers of white blood cells, known as eosinophils, are found in the esophagus.

Abdominal and chest pain

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

Food stuck in the throat (impaction)

Persistent heartburn

Reflux

Vomiting and nausea

For individuals showing signs and symptoms that are consistent with eosinophilic esophagitis, doctors may conduct the following tests to confirm a diagnosis:

  • Upper Endoscopy: A long tube containing a light and a camera is inserted through the mouth and down the esophagus. It is used to inspect the esophagus for inflammation and narrowing.
  • Biopsy: Tissue is taken from the esophagus and examined to look for eosinophils.
  • Esophageal Sponge: A test in which a capsule on a string is swallowed and once the capsule dissolves in the stomach, a sponge is released. The sponge will sample esophageal tissues and doctors can examine it for inflammation.

Although there is currently no known cure for EoE, treatment and medications can alleviate signs and symptoms.

Medication
  • Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids help suppress inflammatory genes to reduce inflammation.
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors: Proton pump inhibitors may help reduce acid production in the stomach.
  • Monoclonal antibodies: can help block proteins that cause inflammation. Dupilumab (Dupixent) is a monoclonal antibody that was recently approved by the FDA for treatment of EoE in adults and children 12 years or older.
Diet Modifications

Some foods may make symptoms worse for people with EoE. It can be helpful to keep track of foods that are easier and more difficult to eat. Examples of diet modifications to help reduce the symptoms of EoE include:

  • Food test-directed elimination diets: The blood is tested for food sensitivities and these foods are removed from the diet.
  • Six-food elimination diet (SFED): Diet to avoid the top 6 food allergens (wheat, milk, eggs, nuts, soy, fish/shellfish).
Feeding Tube
  • People with EoE may require a feeding tube. Feeding tubes provide liquid nutrition to the body as an alternative to eating food.
Surgery
  • Esophageal dilation: A medical procedure in which doctors widen the esophagus.

Ongoing Research

EoE is a disease that requires more effective treatment options. In order to find these new treatments, further research is necessary.

Current Research Studies

There are over 30 eosinophilic esophagitis research studies that are actively recruiting participants. Visit ClinicalTrials.gov to find EoE research studies near you.

Featured Study

Resources

Find an online community of fellow patients, caregivers, and advocates below
as well as some other general resources!

Research in Eosinophil Associated Diseases, EoE+ (READ)
This group is intended to be a forum for discussion and a place where people can share information and research related to eosinophil associated diseases.
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Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) Support USA
A support system for sharing personal struggles of eosinophilic esophagitis.
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EoE Eosinophilic Esophagitis_AdultGroup
A group that offers a safe space for people with EoE to ask questions and share their experiences.
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Reddit Group: r/EosinophilicE
A Reddit community for discussion and information related to eosinophilic esophagitis.
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ausEE
ausEE is a patient organization whose mission is to improve the lives of Australians affected by eosinophilic diseases by providing support, information, resources, and campaigning to raise funds and awareness for further research into eosinophilic diseases.
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APFED | American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders
The American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED) is a nonprofit organization and patient advocacy group dedicated to improving the lives of those living with eosinophilic disorders.
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EOS Network
The EOS Network aims to ensure that people with an eosinophilic gastrointestinal disease receive a proper diagnosis, treatment, and support with their condition.
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CURED Foundation
CURED Foundation is an organization that is dedicated to advocating for those with eosinophilic diseases by helping fund research and increasing awareness about these diseases.
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Apfed Podcast | American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders Podcast
Apfed hosts a podcast where they have conversations with researchers, clinicians, patients, and other members of the community to discuss treatments, research, and other relevant topics.
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EoE Digest
EoE Digest is a website created by Claire Johnson, who was diagnosed with EoE. This website is focused on helping other patients with EoE find EoE friendly recipes that follow the 6-food elimination diet and more information on how diet can help improve symptoms of EoE.
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Social Security Disability Application Process
Visit the article below that shares information about how to apply for social security disability for those who suffer from an eosinophilic disorder.
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Living With Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Read the article below to learn more about different ways to cope with the emotional, physical, and social stress associated with eosinophilic esophagitis. This article also shares tips for eating out, work, parties, and travel.
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Two Studies Show Mixed Progress Against Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Read the article to discover the latest advancements in two clinical studies targeting eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) and their mixed progress.
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