Eosinophilic colitis

Abstract

Eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGID) form a heterogeneous group of diseases, which are classified according to the site of involvement and to the depth of infiltration of the different layers of the gut. The prevalence of these diseases decreases toward the distal part of the gastrointestinal tract. Since it was first described on pathological specimens by Kaijser in 1937, approximately 300 cases of eosinophilic gastroenteritis have been published. The diagnosis of primary EGID is based on the presence of gastrointestinal symptoms; on histology showing eosinophilic infiltration, usually with eosinophils in an intraepithelial position; and on the exclusion of secondary causes of eosinophilia such as drugs, malignancy, or inflammatory bowel disease. Peripheral eosinophilia is not necessary for the diagnosis.