Young man presenting with recurrent food bolus impaction

Abstract

A young man with recurrent food bolus obstruction presented to the gastroenterology clinic and, after investigation, was found to have eosinophilic oesophagitis. This unusual condition is closely linked to atopy and, in parallel with other atopic conditions, is increasing in incidence. Diagnosis is confirmed on oesophageal biopsy and treatment includes topical steroids and exclusion diet. Eosinophilic oesophagitis is gaining recognition in adult medicine as a cause of dysphagia and is one of the leading causes of recurrent food bolus obstruction. As such, it should be considered as a diagnosis in all young patients presenting with compatible symptoms.