Table 7.2-1. Features differentiating EoE and GERD

Characteristic features

EoE

GERD

Coexisting atopic diseases

Common

As in general population

Food hypersensitivity

Common

As in general population

Sex

M > F

M = F

Dysphagia (particularly with allergenic foods)

Common

Uncommon

pH-metry

Normal in most

Abnormal

Endoscopy

Frequent lesions, characteristic appearance

Normal in 40%-60%

Histology

 

Distal esophagus

Proximal esophagus

Lesions present

Lesions present

Lesions present

Normal findings

Epithelial hyperplasia

Significant

Mild

Mucosal eosinophilia

>15 per HPF

0-7 per HPF

Treatment

 

H2 blockers

Useful in some

Useful in some

PPIs

Useful in some

Useful

Glucocorticoids

Useful

No effect

Elimination diet

Useful

No effect

EoE, eosinophilic esophagitis; F, female; GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease; HPF, high-power field; M, male; PPI, proton pump inhibitor.