Eosinophilic esophagitis in adults.

Eosinophilic esophagitis in adults is a disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophageal mucosa and symptoms of long-standing solid food dysphagia and food impactions. First described in 1978, this syndrome is being recognized increasingly in the developed world, with multiple case series reported from the United States, Europe, and Australia during the past decade. Diagnosis requires the presence of greater than or equal to 15 eosinophils/high-power field on esophageal biopsies. Successful treatment in adults has been reported with the use of systemic and topical swallowed steroids. Endoscopic treatment has been associated with increased an risk for tears and perforations.