The crucial role of allergists in the clinical management and treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis.

Abstract

Summary: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the esophagus affecting mainly young individuals with a high burden of comorbid atopic diseases and is associated with increased morbidity. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) is often the first line of treatment by inducing clinical remission in 30-50% of patients. Recently new drugs, such as budesonide orodispersible tablets and a monoclonal antibody targeting interleukin-4 and 13, have been found to be effective in clinical trials and approved to treat this condition. A prompt diagnosis and correct management of these patients is of paramount importance to prevent fibrostenosis of the oesophagus and to improve the quality of life. The complex management of patients living with EoE requires the integrated cooperation of several specialists, including allergists, gastroenterologists, pathologists, dietitians, and psychologist.