Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Treatment

How is eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) treated?

There are three main ways of treating EoE: Proton pump inhibitors, diet and swallowed corticosteroids.

• If EoE is aggravated by gastroesophageal reflux, treating the reflux may help the EoE. This may include medication (Proton pump inhibitors), lifestyle, physical and dietary measures to decrease reflux.

• Changing the diet based on food allergy testing usually isn’t as effective as eliminating the most common food triggers for EoE. They include cow’s milk, egg, soy and wheat.

• Inhaled corticosteroids may be sprayed in the mouth and swallowed to help reduce inflammation in the esophagus. Ask your health care provider how to use this medication correctly.

• If a constriction of the esophagus is seen during the endoscopy, widening (dilation) of the esophagus may be done. This can help with food impaction and trouble swallowing.

• Research studies are currently underway to assess the effectiveness of certain medications (e.g., biologic agents such as mepolizumab).

What is the role of National Jewish Health?

National Jewish Health pediatric and adult allergists will obtain a detailed history and physical to assess the likelihood of EGID. They will then refer to a gastroenterologist for further evaluation with endoscopy or colonoscopy. Once the diagnosis of EGID is made, then they will use the most up-to-date evidence to help guide treatment.