The 'skinny' on eosinophilic esophagitis.

Abstract

Eosinophilic esophagitis--a disease that even most physicians know little about--is becoming increasingly common. Often starting in childhood with eating difficulties and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, it progresses with increasing inflammation, fibrosis, and strictures until the esophagus is visibly narrowed on radiography. Early recognition and treatment with an allergen-avoidance diet and steroids are critical to avoiding or postponing complications.