Eosinophilic Gastroenteritis (EG) refers to an inflammatory condition of the stomach and intestine in which stomach and intestine linings are infiltrated by a type of white blood cell, knwon as an eosinophil.
Eosinophilic gastroenteritis is characterized by a high number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cells, in the stomach and small intestines. Eosinophils are most commonly associated with allergic diseases and parasitic infection. Presence of too many eosinophils causes chronic inflammation of stomach and intestines.
The condition can be caused by infection, food allergy, eating garbage or foreign materials, intestinal parasites, changes of diet and even emotional upsets.
This condition mostly occurs in dogs under five years of age. Though it is not a breed specific condition, some breeds like German Shepherds, Rottweilers, soft-coated Wheaten Terriers, and Shar Peis may be predisposed.
Common symptoms associated with this disorder are
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Lack of appetite
Weight loss
