1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Eosinophilic Duodenitis
Eosinophilic duodenitis is a rare inflammatory condition of the small intestine causing pain, bloating, and nutrient malabsorption. At GastroDoxs, Dr. Nghia Nguyen provides personalized diagnosis and treatment, including diet guidance, medications, procedures, to restore gut health and quality of life.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is Eosinophilic Duodenitis?
Eosinophilic duodenitis is a rare immune-mediated condition in which eosinophils (a type of white blood cell) accumulate in the duodenum—the first part of the small intestine—causing inflammation, pain, gas and impaired nutrient absorption.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Food allergies or sensitivities (such as dairy, soy, or nuts)
Family history of allergies or immune-related disorders
Other eosinophilic conditions (for example, eosinophilic esophagitis)
Asthma, eczema or seasonal allergic rhinitis
Age (more common in children and young adults)
Signs and Symptoms
Pain or cramping in the upper abdomen
Bloating or excessive gas
Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Unintended weight loss
Early satiety (feeling full quickly when eating)
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Eosinophilic Duodenitis in Patients with Epigastric Pain
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Symptom Evaluation
He begins by discussing your epigastric pain, eating habits, weight changes, and any history of allergies or atopic conditions.
Blood Tests
We order a complete blood count to check eosinophil levels and screen for nutrient deficiencies or other blood disorders.
Endoscopy and Biopsy
Upper endoscopy to inspect the duodenal lining for redness, swelling, or nodularity.
Multiple duodenal biopsy samples to confirm eosinophil infiltration and rule out other causes of inflammation.
Allergy and Sensitivity Testing
When food triggers are suspected, skin-prick tests or specific IgE blood tests help identify offending allergens.
Imaging Studies (If Needed)
Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to exclude gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or structural abnormalities causing epigastric pain.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for eosinophilic duodenitis.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Avoid trigger foods (with help from a dietitian)
Track meals and symptoms in a journal
Eat smaller meals more often
2. Medications
PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) - to reduce stomach acid
Steroids - to calm inflammation
Biologics - for more serious cases
3. Procedures (If Needed)
Balloon dilation - if the intestine becomes too narrow
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes eosinophilic duodenitis?
It's most often triggered by food allergies or sensitivities (like dairy, soy, nuts) and an overactive immune response that drives eosinophil buildup in the duodenum.
Can it cause weight loss?
Yes. Chronic inflammation can interfere with appetite and nutrient absorption, leading to unintended weight loss.
How long does treatment take?
Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks of starting diet changes or medications. Achieving full symptom control may take several months.
Is it a lifelong problem?
With the right care plan—including diet management, medications, and regular follow-ups—symptoms can stay under control, though ongoing monitoring is recommended.
Are steroids safe long term?
Dr. Nguyen uses the lowest effective steroid dose and monitors for side effects (such as bone density loss or blood sugar changes) to keep treatment as safe as possible.
Can kids get this condition?
Yes. Eosinophilic duodenitis can affect both children and adults, and Dr. Nguyen tailors treatment plans to every age group.
Do I need a referral?
Some insurance plans require a referral. Our staff will verify your coverage and help you obtain any necessary authorizations before your first visit.
