Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)—a chronic, immune-mediated disease of the esophagus thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors—was formally recognized as a distinct clinical entity in 1993-1994 (although case reports date back to the 1970s). Today in the United States, EoE affects approximately 34 per 100,000 children, more boys than girls (3:1).
In the pediatric population, vomiting, abdominal pain, failure to thrive, dysphagia, and food impaction are the most prevalent symptoms. Many individuals with EoE also suffer from allergic conditions like asthma, allergic rhinitis, or eczema. One of the two peak prevalence periods occurs during adolescence. EoE is associated with complications including food impaction requiring emergent endoscopy and esophageal stricture as well as high healthcare associated cost and negative impact on quality of life, making this an important focus of research to improve care for patients and families with EoE.
Optimizing Medical Management
To better serve New Jersey children living with EoE, RWJBarnabas Health (RWJBH) has created a multidisciplinary pediatric EoE center of excellence to deliver a seamless patient experience and achieve optimal medical management and diagnostic outcomes for patients.
The center offers coordinated access to multidisciplinary expertise across the RWJBH system and best-in-class options for diagnosis and treatment, along with education and psychosocial support for children and their families.
“Here at our center, which serves children from infancy through age 21, we really strive to take an individualized approach to each patient and their family,” says Melissa Weidner, MD, a pediatric gastroenterologist and director of the pediatric EOE center at RWBJH.
“We offer a multidisciplinary team that consists of pediatric gastroenterologists, allergy and immunology specialists, dietitians, and feeding therapists,” Dr. Weidner continues. “We also offer state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques, including un-sedated trans nasal endoscopy, which allows children to go to school and play sports the same day they have their endoscopy.” Other less invasive testing, such as the esophageal string test, is also available. “We know that having EoE can be a challenge,” says Dr. Weidner. “At our pediatric EoE center, we’re here to support our patients, their families, and referring providers.”