Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders in Children
Did You Know?
Studies have shown that hypoallergenic, amino acid-based formulas can help manage clinical symptoms of EoE.1,2
What exactly are eosinophils (ee-oh-sin-oh-fillz)? They are white blood cells that help the body fight certain infections. Eosinophils are most commonly associated with allergic diseases.
What Is EGID?
Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGID) are chronic digestive system disorders in which eosinophils (white blood cells) are found in higher than normal amounts in areas of the digestive tract.
EGIDs typically fall into one of three types:
Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE): The most common and difficult type of EGID to manage, EoE is characterized by inflammation of the esophagus due to abnormally high levels of eosinophils in that area of the GI tract. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, severe vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and, at times, obstruction.
Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis: Associated with eosinophils and inflammation in the stomach and small intestine
Eosinophilic Colitis: Associated with eosinophils and inflammation in the large intestine
Common EGID Symptoms
- Vomiting or nausea
- Abdominal or chest pain
- Acid reflux that does not respond to usual therapy
- Bloating
- Blood in the stool
- Diarrhea
- Poor growth or weight gain
- Difficulty swallowing
- Gastroparesis
- Malnutrition
- Anemia
How to Manage EGID
Your doctor may be able to identify specific food proteins that trigger the over production of eosinophils in your child. Your doctor may recommend an elimination diet where the offending proteins are not consumed. Often, a stricter diet — an amino acid-based diet — is prescribed.
How EleCare® and EleCare® Jr Can Help
The protein in EleCare and EleCare Jr is supplied by amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, instead of intact or hydrolyzed protein.
Learn More About How EleCare and EleCare Jr Help
For more information about EGID, check out:
EleCare and EleCare Jr can also help with the dietary management of:
1Liacouras CA, Spergel JM, Ruchelli E, et al. Eosinophilic esophagitis: A 10-year experience in 381 children. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2005;3:1198-1206.
2Furuta GT, Liacouras CA, Collins MG, et al. Eosinophilic esophagitis in children and adults: A systematic review and consensus recommendations for diagnosis and treatment. Gastroenterology. 2007;133:1342-1363.
