The Natural History of Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Long-term follow-up data show a persistent but benign disease course without steroid treatment.

National guidelines endorse the use of topical swallowed steroids as an initial medical therapy in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE; NEJM JW Gastroenterol Jun 7 2013). Despite this and other recommendations on medical treatments for this disease, its natural history in adults remains unclear.

To investigate the natural progression of EoE, investigators conducted a single-center, retrospective analysis comprising 13 patients who were treated with proton-pump inhibitors and endoscopic dilation, not treated with steroids, and followed-up for at least 5 years (mean follow-up, 13.6 years; range, 5–24 years).

All patients had daily dysphagia, and 12 had presentation with food bolus esophageal impaction. Locations of multiple esophageal rings were prox…

Reviewing Author

David A. Johnson, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory boardMedscape/WebMD; Pfizer; CRH Medical Corporation; Aries

EquityCRH Medical Corporation

Editorial boardsMedscape Gastroenterology

Leadership positions in professional societiesAmerican College of Gastroenterology Research Institute Board of Directors