Abstract
Recent studies have reported a higher prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis in children
with esophageal atresia. Under recognition of eosinophilic esophagitis in these patients
may lead to excessive use of antireflux therapy and an escalation of interventions,
including fundoplication, as symptoms may be attributed to gastroesophageal reflux
disease. In addition, long-term untreated eosinophilic esophagitis may lead to recurrent
strictures due to transmural esophageal inflammation, necessitating repeated dilatations.
Eosinophilic esophagitis should be considered when children with esophageal atresia
show persistent symptoms on standard antireflux treatment, increasing dysphagia, and
recurrent strictures. Treatment has been found to not only significantly reduce intraepithelial
eosinophil count, but also to improve symptoms, and to lower the occurrence of strictures
and the need for dilatations. Future prospective studies are warranted in this area.
Keywords
esophageal atresia - tracheoesophageal fistula - eosinophilic esophagitis - children
