BACKGROUND

Despite the vast focus of research in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), the natural history of untreated EoE remains undefined. Current expert consensus panels are calling for natural history studies to define long-term risks, adverse events, and progression of the disease.

OBJECTIVE

To address the natural course and long-term adverse events of EoE.

DESIGN

Retrospective, single-center study.

SETTING

Tertiary-care center. A cohort of patients from the year 1988 initially diagnosed as having congenital esophageal stenosis who were later reclassified as having EoE.

PATIENTS

Ninety-five patients, with 13 meeting entrance criteria for idiopathic EoE with follow-up >5 years.

INTERVENTIONS

Anti-acids and esophageal dilation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Clinical response, adverse events, long-term clinical outcomes, and progression of disease.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients (mean age at diagnosis 30.3 years, 10 male) were evaluated over a 13.6-year mean follow-up (range 5-24 years). All patients experienced daily dysphagia, with 12 presenting with food impactions. Patients were treated with esophageal dilation (64% Maloney, 34% Savary, 2.5% through-the-scope balloon) and daily anti-acids. Patients were initially treated with an average of 3.2 dilations over the first year (range 1-6) to achieve a luminal size of 15.8 mm (range 14-18 mm). They were maintained successfully with dilations every 2 years, on average, based on symptoms. Two patients not adhering to recommended dilation schedules experienced repeat impactions. One adverse event from a mucosal tear required hospitalization (1 of 157, 0.6%). Seven of 13 had Barrett's esophagus, average length 2.4 cm (range 1-4 cm), 3 on initial EGD and 4 identified over a mean duration of 9.4 years. No patient developed dysplasia or malignancy.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective, small sample.

CONCLUSION

The course of EoE over a 13.6-year mean duration, although persistent, appears benign and not associated with cancer risk. A program of regular esophageal dilations based on symptom recurrence appears to be a safe, long-term treatment.