Eosinophilic gastroenteritis.

Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is a rare condition of unknown etiology characterized by peripheral eosinophilia, eosinophilic infiltration of the gastrointestinal tract, and gastrointestinal symptomatology. Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is generally classified according to the layer of gastrointestinal tract involved. Mucosal involvement may result in abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, anemia, protein-losing enteropathy, and intestinal perforation. Patients with muscular layer disease generally have obstructive symptoms. Subserosal eosinophilic infiltration may result in development of eosinophilic ascites. Patients with mild and sporadic symptoms can be managed with reassurance and expectant observation. Patients with disabling symptoms can be effectively treated with corticosteroids after other systemic disorders associated with peripheral eosinophilia have been excluded. Occasionally, sodium cromolyn, ketotifen, and/or elimination diets have been shown to be effective in the management of patients who have a significant history of allergic disorder. Surgical intervention may be required in patients with obstructive complications or refractory disease.