Eosinophilic Gastritis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of eosinophilic gastritis?

Eosinophilic gastritis is a rare condition characterized by an elevated number of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) in the stomach lining. The symptoms of eosinophilic gastritis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and may include:

1. Abdominal pain: This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and may be located in the upper abdomen.
2. Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea, and vomiting, especially after eating.
3. Loss of appetite: Decreased appetite or early satiety (feeling full quickly) may occur.
4. Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss may occur due to decreased appetite and difficulty eating.
5. Difficulty swallowing: Some individuals may experience difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or a feeling of food getting stuck in the throat or chest.
6. Gastrointestinal bleeding: In some cases, eosinophilic gastritis may cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can lead to symptoms such as black, tarry stools or vomiting blood.
7. Anemia: Chronic gastrointestinal bleeding can lead to anemia (low red blood cell count), which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
8. Other symptoms: Other symptoms that may occur include bloating, indigestion, and diarrhea.

It’s important to note that the symptoms of eosinophilic gastritis can be similar to those of other gastrointestinal conditions, such as peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis). If you experience persistent or severe symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What are the causes of eosinophilic gastritis?

The exact cause of eosinophilic gastritis is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to an abnormal immune response. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell involved in allergic reactions and immune responses to parasites. In eosinophilic gastritis, these cells accumulate in the lining of the stomach, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

Several factors may contribute to the development of eosinophilic gastritis, including:

1. Allergies: Eosinophilic gastritis is often associated with food allergies or environmental allergies. In some cases, eliminating the allergen from the diet can help improve symptoms.
2. Autoimmune disorders: There may be an autoimmune component to eosinophilic gastritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue in the stomach.
3. Genetics: There may be a genetic predisposition to eosinophilic gastritis, as it can sometimes run in families.
4. Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as pollutants or toxins, may trigger an abnormal immune response in susceptible individuals.
5. Other conditions: Eosinophilic gastritis may be associated with other conditions, such as eosinophilic esophagitis or inflammatory bowel disease.

It’s important to note that while these factors may contribute to the development of eosinophilic gastritis, the exact cause is not always clear, and more research is needed to fully understand the condition.

How is the diagnosis of eosinophilic gastritis made?

The diagnosis of eosinophilic gastritis is typically made through a combination of clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and laboratory tests. The following are common steps in diagnosing the condition:

1. Medical history and physical examination: Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any potential triggers, such as food allergies or other allergic conditions. They will also perform a physical examination to check for signs of eosinophilic gastritis, such as abdominal tenderness or enlarged lymph nodes.
2. Blood tests: Blood tests may be done to check for elevated levels of eosinophils, as well as markers of inflammation and allergy.
3. Endoscopy: A procedure called an upper endoscopy may be performed to examine the inside of your stomach and obtain tissue samples (biopsies) for further analysis. During an endoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end (endoscope) is passed through your mouth and into your stomach. The tissue samples are then examined under a microscope to look for the presence of eosinophils in the stomach lining.
4. Imaging studies: Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, may be done to assess the extent of inflammation and to rule out other conditions.
5. Food allergy testing: If food allergies are suspected as a trigger for eosinophilic gastritis, allergy testing, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, may be done to identify specific allergens.
6. Elimination diet: In some cases, a trial of an elimination diet may be recommended to see if symptoms improve with the removal of certain foods from the diet.
7. Other tests: Additional tests, such as esophageal pH monitoring or manometry, may be done to assess for other conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.

It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider experienced in diagnosing and treating eosinophilic disorders to establish an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

What is the treatment for eosinophilic gastritis?

Eosinophilic gastritis is a rare condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of eosinophils in the lining of the stomach. The treatment for eosinophilic gastritis typically involves a combination of medications and dietary changes. The goals of treatment are to reduce inflammation, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications.

The treatment options for eosinophilic gastritis may include:

1. Antihistamines: Medications such as diphenhydramine or hydroxyzine can help reduce the production of histamine, a chemical that contributes to inflammation.
2. Steroids: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, can help reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system’s response.
3. Anti-inflammatory medications: Medications like mesalamine or sulfasalazine can help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
4. Acid reducers: Medications like omeprazole or lansoprazole can help reduce the production of stomach acid, which can exacerbate symptoms.
5. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs, such as omeprazole or pantoprazole, can also help reduce stomach acid production.
6. Diet: Elimination diet: A diet that eliminates common allergenic foods such as dairy products, gluten, eggs, soy, fish, and shellfish may help alleviate symptoms.
7. Elemental diet: A diet consisting of amino acids, fats, and sugars (elemental diet) may be recommended in severe cases of eosinophilic gastritis.
8. Biopsies: If the condition is caused by an allergic reaction to food, a biopsy may be performed to identify the specific allergen and recommend an elimination diet.

In severe cases of eosinophilic gastritis, surgery may be necessary to remove part or all of the stomach lining (gastric resection) to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.

It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause of the condition.