What Is Eosinophilic Colitis?
Eosinophilic colitis is a rare large intestine inflammatory disease that is characterized by the excessive accumulation of eosinophils (white blood cell). The abdominal pain, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms may result as a result of this overgrowth.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
- Sensitivities of food -Food can cause immune reaction in the colon.
- Allergies -Prior occurrence of allergic disorders may make the risk.
- Family history -Genetic influences may also be involved in susceptibility.
- Other GI disorders -Other gastrointestinal disorders can coexist.
Signs and Symptoms
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Persistent diarrhea
- Unintended weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Blood or mucus in the stool
- Fatigue or weakness
Expert Treatment for Eosinophilic Colitis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri
Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He examines your symptoms, food history, allergy history, family history of gastrointestinal disorders.
Blood Tests
A complete blood count examines the high level of eosinophils and also excludes other possible causes of inflammations.
Stool Tests
Infections, parasites and other inflammatory diseases are not studied in stool.
Colonoscopy with Biopsy
A colonoscopy enables one to view the colonic lining directly. The presence and extent of the eosinophil accumulation are established in small tissue samples (biopses).
Imaging Studies
- Colon wall thickening or other changes of structures can be identified using abdominal ultrasound or CT scan.
- In case of need, magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) gives detailed images of the bowel.
Allergy and Dietary Testing
Food allergy profiles and an elimination diet are also used to identify certain foods as triggers to the eosinophilic reaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)?
EoE is a disease that is allergic in nature and involves accumulation of white blood cells (eosinophils) within the esophagus that leads to weakness in swallowing and inflammation.
What triggers eosinophilic esophagitis?
Examples of common triggers are food allergens (milk, wheat, eggs, nuts), environmental allergens (pollen) and acid reflux.
How is EoE diagnosed?
Diagnosis must include upper endoscopy with biopsy. Pathology reveals increased levels of eosinophil in the esophagus.
What are the main symptoms?
Its symptoms are difficulty in swallowing, food impaction (food sticking), chest pain, and continuous heartburn.
How is EoE treated?
Therapy is usually combined with dietary avoidance of the triggers, topical steroids (swallow inhalers) and esophageal dilation of strictures.
Can diet alone manage EoE?
A six-food dietary elimination (not including dairy, wheat, soy, eggs, nuts, seafood) with a gradual reintroduction is helpful with many patients.
Is EoE a lifelong condition?
Yes. EoE is chronic. Diet, medication and regular endoscopies can be used to control the inflammation and reduce the complications in the continued management.
When should I see a gastroenterologist?
See an expert in case of swallowing difficulties most of the time, ingesting food, or chronic chest pains that cannot be relieved with antacids.