Incidence and Characteristics of Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis: A Midwestern State Analysis

Background: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic disease defined by esophageal dysfunction and >15 eosinophils per high-power-field on biopsy. Despite its increased incidence across the United States, studies evaluating its incidence at any state level are lacking.

Methods: Record review of pediatric patients (<18 years) newly diagnosed with EoE based on ICD coding seen at the main two pediatric gastroenterology centers in the state: Children's Nebraska (1 January 2016-31 December 2022) and Boys Town National Research Hospital (1 January 2022-31 December 2022). Data included demographics, age, and zip codes. Descriptive analysis focused on Nebraska residents.

Results: The average point incidence of EoE between 2016 and 2022 was 10.84/100,000 inhabitants based on data from Children's Nebraska. Considering both centers, the point incidence in Nebraska for 2022 was 32.45/100,000 inhabitants. Caucasians were 3.7 times more likely to be affected and older at time of diagnosis (average 9.7 years) compared to African Americans (7.0), Hispanics (7.4), and Asians (4.4).

Conclusions: This is the first study evaluating the incidence of EoE in a specific U.S.A state. Studies at the state level are important to direct policy and interventions aiming limit its burden in communities.