Update on basic and clinical aspects of eosinophilic oesophagitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Immunology
• Allergy

Background:

• Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is a distinct syndrome characterized by chronic inflammation of the esophagus.
• Recent research has elucidated molecular, immunological, and clinical aspects of EoE.
• The condition involves eosinophilic inflammation leading to esophageal remodeling and dysfunction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent basic and clinical insights into eosinophilic oesophagitis.
• To discuss the aetiopathogenesis, particularly food triggers.
• To highlight therapeutic advancements and their clinical relevance.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent scientific literature on EoE.
• Focus on aetiopathogenesis, including food triggers (milk, wheat).
• Analysis of studies on esophageal remodeling and therapeutic interventions.

Main Results:

• EoE is confirmed as a food-triggered disease, with milk and wheat as primary culprits.
• Chronic eosinophilic inflammation causes esophageal remodeling, leading to strictures and impaired function.
• Long-term therapeutic trials demonstrate that topical corticosteroids or dietary allergen avoidance can prevent or reverse esophageal damage.

Conclusions:

• Consistent anti-inflammatory therapy is clinically relevant for managing EoE.
• Understanding food triggers and mechanisms of inflammation is crucial.
• Despite progress, EoE remains complex with many unanswered questions for future research.