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Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease Program

 Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease Program
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 Gastroenterology/Nutrition
 Allergy/Immunology
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Flower About EGIDs
What are EGIDs?
Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs) are rare conditions that can occur when there are high levels of eosinophils in one or more parts of the digestive system. Eosinophils are a type of white blood cell that is involved in allergic reactions.
What are the symptoms of EGIDs?
Symptoms of EGIDs are wide-ranging and include:
  • difficulty swallowing
  • vomiting
  • reflux
  • abdominal pain
  • poor weight gain
How are EGIDs diagnosed?
Only a biopsy can distinguish an EGID from other digestive diseases. If a diagnosis is made, food and environmental allergy testing are helpful in guiding therapy.
How are EGIDs treated?
Treatment involves either medical or dietary therapy. There are several medications available to reverse the eosinophils in the esophagus. Alternatively, based on allergy testing, we can recommend a diet restricting specific foods that may be triggering the disease.
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