Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic condition causing inflammation of the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that sends food from the throat to the stomach.
People with EoE have a larger than normal number of eosinophils in their esophagus. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that may cause inflammation in the esophagus and in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract.
Most research suggests that the leading cause of EoE is an allergy or a sensitivity to particular proteins found in foods. Many people with EoE have a history of allergic disorders such as asthma, rhinitis, dermatitis or food allergy. Allergy testing can identify potential triggers that can be avoided.