Pediatric eosinophilic esophagitis among children attending a tertiary hospital in Nairobi, Kenya: a case series
Abstract
Background: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an emerging chronic immune-mediated esophageal disorder characterized by esophageal dysfunction and dense eosinophilic infiltration of the epithelium. Despite increasing global recognition, data from sub-Saharan Africa remain scarce.
Objective: The aim of this work is to describe the clinical spectrum, endoscopic and histopathologic features, and treatment outcomes of pediatric EoE cases diagnosed at a tertiary private hospital in Nairobi, Kenya.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective case series of eight children, aged 4-17 years, who were diagnosed with EoE at The Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi. Data collected included demographics, presenting symptoms, laboratory findings, endoscopic features, histology, treatment regimens, and follow-up outcomes. Diagnosis was based on the presence of ≥15 eosinophils per high-power field in esophageal biopsies, alongside clinical and endoscopic correlation, and exclusion of other causes of esophageal eosinophilia.
Results: Of the eight patients (six boys, two girls), common symptoms included dysphagia (n = 2, 25%), chronic abdominal pain (n = 5, 62%), and globus sensation (n = 1, 12%). Endoscopic findings included edema, furrows, exudates, and white plaques, classified using the Eosinophilic Esophagitis Endoscopic Reference Score (EREFS). Eosinophil counts ranged from 10 to 40 eosinophils per high-power field, demonstrating variability in symptom presentation and endoscopic findings.…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case series, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health.
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