EGID

EGID stands for Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders. These are a group of chronic immune-related conditions characterized by the infiltration of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, into the gastrointestinal tract. While eosinophils are normally present in the digestive system in small numbers, their excessive accumulation in EGID can lead to inflammation and damage.

EGID can affect various parts of the digestive system, leading to different subtypes. The most common include eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), where eosinophils build up in the esophagus, causing difficulty swallowing and pain, and eosinophilic gastritis (EG), where the stomach lining is affected, potentially leading to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is a broader term that can encompass inflammation in both the stomach and small intestine. Eosinophilic colitis affects the large intestine.

The exact cause of EGID is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an immune response, often triggered by food allergens. Genetic factors may also play a role. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of symptom assessment, endoscopic examination, and biopsy to confirm the presence of eosinophil infiltration. Treatment strategies aim to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms, and may include dietary modifications, medications such as corticosteroids, and in some cases, dilation of narrowed areas in the esophagus.