[Histopathology of reflux esophagitis at an early phase. Study and significance of intraepithelial eosinophilia].

The diagnosis of reflux esophagitis in the early stage is not easy because endoscopy rarely shows evident findings and histology of biopsy specimens still appears unclear and doubtful. Usual histopathological findings are reported and most available diagnostic criteria are discussed, on the basis of the literature and personal experience. Intraepithelial eosinophils are a possible marker of early reflux esophagitis: its diagnostic usefulness is outlined.