Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026
03:23
Author Spotlight: Investigating the Pathophysiology of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Published on: May 10, 2024
1.6K
Eosinophilic esophagitis in a developing country: is it different from developed countries?
Abdulrahman Al-Hussaini1, Toufic Semaan2, Imad El Hag3
1University of King Saud bin Abdulaziz for Health Sciences, Children's Hospital, King Fahad Medical City, P.O. Box 59046, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Gastroenterology Research and Practice
|December 28, 2013
Summary
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is increasingly diagnosed in Saudi Arabia, presenting similar features and treatment responses to those seen in developed nations. This study highlights EoE
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is well-documented in industrialized nations, but underreported in developing countries.
- Limited data exists on EoE epidemiology and clinical presentation in developing regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the epidemiological, clinical, and endoscopic characteristics of EoE in Saudi Arabia.
- To assess treatment response in pediatric and adult EoE patients in a developing country.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of EoE patients diagnosed between 2004 and 2011.
- Defined EoE by esophageal eosinophil counts (≥15 eosinophils/high-powered field).
- Evaluated clinical symptoms, allergy testing, dietary, and pharmacologic interventions.
Main Results:
- Forty-five patients (37 children, 8 adults) diagnosed with EoE.
- Clinical features varied by age: feeding issues in young children, dysphagia/food impaction in older patients.
- Swallowed inhaled fluticasone induced remission in 39 patients, with frequent relapses upon discontinuation.
Conclusions:
- EoE is increasingly recognized in Saudi Arabia, mirroring patterns seen in North America and Europe.
- Clinical manifestations and treatment responses are comparable to those in developed countries.
- Further research is needed to understand EoE prevalence in developing regions.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
1.8K
Individuals with Barrett's esophagus are often asymptomatic, but they may experience symptoms commonly associated with GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additional symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, blood in the stool (which may appear black, tarry, or bloody), and episodes of vomiting.
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure...
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure...
1.8K
01:25Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
46
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is the backward flow of stomach contents (acid, pepsin, or bile) into the esophagus, causing mucosal inflammation known as esophagitis. It results from failure of antireflux mechanisms, mainly the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), influenced by mechanical and physiological factors.Etiology and Risk FactorsGERD develops when LES function is weakened or when intra-abdominal pressure increases. Risk factors include aging, obesity, and sliding hiatal hernia,...
46
01:27Esophageal Achalasia
45
Esophageal achalasia is a chronic neurogenic disorder characterized by impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and absent or ineffective peristalsis in the distal esophagus. This leads to a functional obstruction without a physical blockage, despite significant disruption of esophageal motility.EtiologyAchalasia is caused by degeneration of the myenteric (Auerbach's) plexus, specifically the loss of inhibitory ganglion cells that produce vasoactive intestinal peptide...
45
01:21Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction
1.5K
Barrett's esophagus is a medical condition where the esophageal mucosa is significantly damaged by stomach acid or other digestive fluids, often due to long-term exposure associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In GERD, a weakened or abnormally relaxed lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to flow persistently into the esophagus.
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more...
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more...
1.5K
01:30Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
1.3K
Esophageal strictures involve abnormal narrowing or tightening of the esophagus. They vary in length and severity, ranging from mild constriction to complete obstruction, and are classified as benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
1.3K
01:29Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
1.1K
Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a persistent medical condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Its clinical manifestations can vary greatly, making diagnosis and management challenging for healthcare professionals. The following is a comprehensive overview of the clinical manifestations, assessment, and management strategies for GERD.
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
1.1K