Documenting the Journey of Patients with Eosinophilic Esophagitis and the Impact of the Disease on Patients and their Caregivers: A Cross-sectional, Qualitative Research Study

Abstract

Introduction: Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic, immune-mediated esophageal disease for which there is currently no approved treatment in the USA and only one approved therapy in Europe. EoE can significantly affect the lives of patients and caregivers; however, little has been published about patients' experiences from symptom onset to diagnosis and treatment.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional, qualitative research study. During one-on-one semi-structured interviews, patients with EoE in the USA and their caregivers provided information about their experiences of EoE before and during diagnosis, and their current experiences. Qualitative data were analyzed using a content analysis approach.

Results: The study included children aged 6-11 years with EoE (n = 4) and their caregivers (n = 4); adolescents aged 12-17 years with EoE (n = 7) and their caregivers (n = 7); and adults aged ≥ 18 years with EoE (n = 20). The diagnosis of EoE was often arduous and took many years. Patients and caregivers were frequently frustrated with the complexities of diagnosing EoE, which often involved multiple healthcare providers and procedures. Patients reported physical and psychosocial burdens associated with EoE before diagnosis, including interference with social activities, school, and work. Patients also reported feeling frustrated or anxious. These burdens frequently remained after diagnosis. Caregivers also reported anxiety and, in some cases, interference with their ability to work.

Conclusion: This study of EoE describes the difficult journey faced by patients and their caregivers from symptom onset to diagnosis and beyond.

Keywords: Caregiver; Diagnosis; Disease burden; Eosinophilic esophagitis; Health-related quality of life; Outcomes research; Patient journey.