Question:

Good evening. I suffer from reflux problems and occasional difficulty swallowing, and in my case PPIs are ineffective. Esophageal manometry showed an incompetent cardia and non-specific alterations in esophageal motility. I have undergone two gastroscopies with biopsies, but not of the esophagus.

My 11-year-old daughter is now experiencing the same symptoms as I am: heartburn, belching, difficulty digesting and swallowing, and the sensation of food being stuck in the throat.

We are waiting for her to undergo a gastroscopy. In the meantime, I would like to ask whether these symptoms could be compatible with eosinophilic esophagitis, and whether this condition may have a hereditary component.

Thank you.

Answer:

Eosinophilic esophagitis may have a higher incidence among first-degree relatives of affected individuals. However, in this specific case, a correct clinical and histological diagnosis is essential for both the parent and the child.

Endoscopic examination with multiple esophageal biopsies, followed by histological assessment, is fundamental in order to confirm the diagnostic suspicion.

dott.ssa Paola De Angelis, MD (Pediatra- Gastroenterologo, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Roma)​

Please remember that the answers provided are opinions and do not constitute medical advice. They cannot replace a consultation, a medical examination, or the review of the patient’s medical documentation.