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Author Spotlight: Investigating the Pathophysiology of Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Published on: May 10, 2024
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Particulate matter as a possible risk factor for eosinophilic esophagitis.
Natasha Albaneze1, Cary C Cotton2, Kristen M Rappazzo3
1Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States.
Frontiers in Allergy
|October 6, 2025
Summary
Air pollution, specifically fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), showed a modest association with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). However, this link weakened when accounting for other factors, suggesting a minor role in EoE development.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Air pollution, including PM2.5 and PM10, is linked to respiratory and cardiac issues.
- The potential role of air pollution in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) remains understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 and the risk of developing EoE.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study utilized a national pathology database of esophageal biopsies.
- EoE cases were identified by biopsy findings (≥15 eosinophils/HPF).
- Exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 was estimated using National Emissions Inventory data at the county level.
Main Results:
- The study included 12,062 EoE cases and 229,397 controls.
- Higher PM2.5 and PM10 exposure showed a modest association with EoE.
- Associations were attenuated after adjusting for confounders.
Conclusions:
- Exposure to PM2.5 and PM10 is modestly associated with EoE.
- The etiological role of these particulates in EoE, if any, appears to be of small magnitude.
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