Eosinophilic oesophagitis--a guide for primary care

Eosinophilic oesophagitis (EoE) is an increasingly recognised inflammatory disorder of the oesophagus. The incidence of this chronic, food-triggered disease is rising in Australia and diagnosis should be considered in patients who complain of dysphagia.

This article provides an overview of the pathogenesis, evaluation and management of EoE. It is intended as a useful tool for general practitioners (GPs) in the primary care setting and to raise awareness of EoE.

EoE is an increasingly prevalent allergic disorder of the oesophagus. It is characterised clinically by symptoms of oesophageal dysfunction and microscopically by eosinophilic inflammation of the oesophagus. Treatment involves avoiding trigger foods and corticosteroid therapy, which may be necessary intermittently or long term, given the relapsing nature of the condition. EoE can significantly impair quality of life and GPs are key to recognising the disease and directing patients' long-term care.