Eosinophilic colitis and colonic eosinophilia.

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pathology
• Internal Medicine

Background:

• Eosinophilic colitis is a rare condition with low prevalence.
• Secondary colonic eosinophilia is more common and linked to various systemic, colonic, and infectious diseases.
• Normal colonic eosinophil ranges are being established, aiding differentiation between primary and secondary forms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize and discuss the latest advances in the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of eosinophilic colitis.
• To highlight the diagnostic significance of colonic eosinophilia as a biomarker for gastrointestinal diseases.
• To provide clinicians and pathologists with a differential diagnosis list for optimal management.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent studies on colonic eosinophil ranges.
• Analysis of histological and clinical findings in primary eosinophilic colitis and secondary colonic eosinophilia.
• Discussion of associations between colonic eosinophilia and various diseases and medications.

Main Results:

• Normal colonic eosinophil ranges have been recently established.
• Primary eosinophilic colitis is rare but can be challenging to treat.
• Secondary colonic eosinophilia is associated with parasitic infections, connective tissue diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, colonic spirochaetosis, collagenous colitis, and certain drugs.

Conclusions:

• Advances in understanding primary eosinophilic colitis and secondary colonic eosinophilia are progressing.
• Colonic eosinophilia, when present, should prompt consideration of a differential diagnosis list.
• Accurate diagnosis and management are crucial for patients with eosinophilic conditions of the colon.