EoE ToT Module 3 References-Noel et al NEJM 2004 Eosinophilic esophagitis

Noel et al NEJM 2004 Eosinophilic esophagitis

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A study on eosinophilic esophagitis in a pediatric population based in Hamilton County, Ohio, reveals significant findings regarding its incidence, prevalence, and familial patterns. Eosinophilic esophagitis, an emerging disease similar to gastroesophageal reflux disease, is characterized by significant mucosal eosinophilia and a lack of response to acid suppression. The study identified 315 cases from 1991 to 2003, with a marked increase in diagnoses post-2000.<br /><br />Key demographic insights include a male predominance (71%) and a mean age of about 10 years. Symptoms varied by age, with younger children presenting feeding disorders and older children exhibiting dysphagia and food impaction. A strong familial pattern was observed, including sibling pairs and parent-child cases, suggesting a possible genetic predisposition or an environmental trigger.<br /><br />The annual incidence from 2000 to 2003 was approximately 1 per 10,000 children, with a prevalence of 4.296 per 10,000 by the end of 2003. These rates imply that eosinophilic esophagitis might be as common or more prevalent than other inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders. The disease appears to be evenly distributed across the population gradient, without geographic clustering.<br /><br />The study underscores a need for increased recognition and research into eosinophilic esophagitis, considering the potential genetic and environmental factors involved. Further investigations could elucidate the mechanisms driving the disease, aiding in developing more effective diagnostic and treatment strategies.

Keywords

eosinophilic esophagitis

pediatric population

Hamilton County

incidence

prevalence

familial patterns

genetic predisposition

environmental trigger

male predominance

dysphagia