Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition

A Prospective Case-Controlled Study to Identify Novel Biologic Markers Associated with Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Principal Investigator: Samuel Nurko, MD, MPH

Department: Gastroenterology

Protocol Status: Open for recruitment

Trial Description: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EE) is an inflammatory disease of the esophagus, leading to swallowing problems, pain, food intolerance, and poor weight gain or weight loss in otherwise healthy infants and children. Currently, the only way doctors have to detect and monitor disease activity in patients with EE is by doing an upper endoscopy. This means that patients with EE will typically undergo three to four endoscopies per year. The objective of this study is to develop a laboratory test for EE, so that patients with EE will not need to undergo repeated procedures to monitor the course of their disease.

Recruitment Info: Children between the ages of 1 and 18 years who receive an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to evaluate symptoms of esophagitis may be eligible for this study. The study involves the collection of blood, urine, and saliva samples, as well as gastric juice and two esophageal biopsies. The collection of these samples occurs while the patient is under sedation or general anesthesia. Compensation includes a $25 gift card and a parking voucher.

Recruitment Contact: Katharine Rooney

Recruitment Contact Phone: (617) 355-5998

Recruitment Contact Email: Katharine.Rooney@childrens.harvard.edu