Multiple food allergies can cause esophagitis. I was not aware of this until I stumbled on to a big heavy book on pediatric gastrointestinal disease. I then looked for published extracts before this post.

The most common allergen is cow’s milk protein. More specifically it is lactose intolerance. The condition is called Allergic eosinophilic esophagitis. Eosinophils are types of white blood cells found in blood but in this condition eosinophils infiltrate the esophageal wall.

Most parents know that milk intolerance will cause vomiting, colic and diarrhoea but in this condition these symptoms are associated with failure to thrive or weight loss in adults. Acid reflux treatment in this condition is ineffective.

Evidence shows that esophagitis as a manifestation of infant food allergies is increasing in developed countries. One subset of this condition is associated with atopy such as dry skin or eczema.

Diagnosis in not easy but is made by multiple site biopsy.

Elimination diet of up to twelve weeks may be needed for complete removal of all symptoms and the lining to return to normal.

A word of warning. If from this post you suspect your child has some form of reaction such as lactose intolerance, make sure you are well informed before thinking of altering your child’s diet.

Theodore et al. in their review of trial results found the potential for Kwasiorkor, a form of protein-energy malnutrition, in children with supposed milk allergy is present when there is frequent dietary changes. If you are not sure, check with your health visitor or your doctor.
I cannot vouch for the accuracy of this post. If anyone can throw more light on this topic, leave a comment.

Dr. Phil Hariram