Lymphocytic Esophagitis Mimicking Eosinophilic Esophagitis and Esophageal Candidiasis: A Case Report.

A 59-year-old man presented with a 5-year history of progressive dysphagia. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed an esophageal stricture with adherent whitish exudates, and biopsy specimens demonstrated fungal elements. Subsequent EGD showed longitudinal furrows, concentric rings, and white exudates, mimicking eosinophilic esophagitis. Biopsy specimens revealed marked intraepithelial lymphocytic infiltration without eosinophils. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated a predominance of CD3-positive T cells, leading to a diagnosis of lymphocytic esophagitis. Despite treatment with proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor antagonists, antifungal agents, and inhaled fluticasone, his symptoms persisted without sustained improvement.