Eosinophilic esophagitis, gastroenteritis, and colitis in a patient with prior parasite exposure

Clin J Gastroenterol. 2019 Dec;12(6):530-533. doi: 10.1007/s12328-019-00988-6. Epub 2019 May 10.

Abstract

Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGID) comprise a spectrum of inflammatory diseases that can affect any segment of the gastrointestinal tract. The pathogenesis of these conditions is complex; differentiating between primary and secondary forms of these disorders can be clinically challenging. We report a case of primary EGID in a patient with remote parasite exposure, whose symptoms were initially attributed to irritable bowel syndrome. Endoscopy revealed the rare finding of EGID involving the entire gastrointestinal tract; symptoms improved with an elimination diet. This case raises the possibility of a link between prior parasite exposure and development of EGID, and underscores the necessity of exploring alternative diagnoses in patients with presumed IBS who present with severe symptoms.

Keywords: Colitis; Eosinophilic; Esophagitis; Gastroenteritis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Colitis / diagnosis
  • Colitis / diet therapy
  • Colitis / parasitology*
  • Dairy Products
  • Enteritis / diagnosis
  • Enteritis / diet therapy
  • Enteritis / parasitology*
  • Eosinophilia / diagnosis
  • Eosinophilia / diet therapy
  • Eosinophilia / parasitology*
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis / diagnosis
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis / diet therapy
  • Eosinophilic Esophagitis / parasitology*
  • Gastritis / diagnosis
  • Gastritis / diet therapy
  • Gastritis / parasitology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Toxocariasis*
  • Treatment Outcome

Supplementary concepts

  • Eosinophilic enteropathy