What are the Benefits of a Multidisciplinary Center To Treat Eosinophilic Esophagitis?
Eosinophilic esophagitis is a complex allergic GI disease which has only recently been increasing in awareness among physicians. Many people are not familiar with this condition, but eosinophilic esophagitis has been rising in prevalence. Optimal management of eosinophilic esophagitis requires coordinated care from physicians across multiple specialties who have experience in this disease.
A gastroenteologist is needed to assess GI symptoms and monitor disease status through endoscopies (EGD). An allergist is needed to perform a food allergy evaluation and discuss diets, as well as manage concomitant allergic disease that are frequently seen in patients with EoE. A pathologist familiar with this disease is needed to accurately interpret esophageal biopsy findings. And a dietitian who has experience with food allergies is central for providing guidance to families who embark on dietary therapy. In addition, support provided by a social worker or therapist is often very helpful, as this disease can cause considerable stress at home, school, and work.
Because communication among multiple medical providers is critical for effective management of this disease, a multidisciplinary center can provide ideal treatment for EoE. In general, a hospital center that specializes in the treatment of EoE and other eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs) often arrange for multiple appointments on a single day which allows for efficient rapid evaluation and increased convenience for families. Coordination of care becomes easier since providers can easily discuss and arrange for management of patient. Furthermore, medical records are centralized in one medical facility decreasing the possibility of lost or overlooked pieces of medical information. Generally, these centers will have dedicated specialists who have significant experience in treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis. This expertise can significantly reduce delays in diagnosis, improve outcomes, prevent misdiagnosis, and provide accurate medical advice.
See Listing of Pediatric Multispecialty Centers for Treatment of Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders