Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Eosinophil Cationic Proteins As Marker of Disease During the Follow-up

Background: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EE) is a chronic pathology characterized by the increase of eosinophils within the esophagus, with low evidence of a complete recovery. A key role is played by eosinophils mediators. Therefore, a number of studies have been done aimed at finding non invasive potential biomarkers helpful for the pathology follow-up. Our experience was focused on the role of eosinophil cationic proteins (ECP).

Methods: 8 patients with EE have been allergologically visited with a follow up after 16 months. ECP values have been compared after the first visit and during the therapy steps. To estimate symptoms severity we used the visual analogical scale (VAS).

Results: During the first visit, all the patients of our sample were symptomatic, with an high ECP value. After the first control, the VAS score increased and the ECP level did drop for all the patients: 4 patients showed a positive biopic exam, going on with the therapy. During the second control, for 2 patients this result was associated with an ECP increase, due to the respiratory allergy in acute phase, and/or to the low diet compliance rate.

Conclusions: : our findings demonstrate a high correlation between ECP levels, eosinophilic inflammation within the esophagus, and clinic symptoms. ECP could be used as a EE non invasive marker, particularly effective during the follow up phase.