Tuesday, August 17, 2010

We have a diagnosis!

The GI nurse practitioner called me at the office today at 5pm. She said the biopsy results were in. My heart kind of sank a little. Biopsy results don't typically come back that quickly unless something was abnormal. She said that Andrew had a huge amount of eosinophils in the cellular makeup of his esophagus. The official diagnosis is eosinophilic esophagitis. Eosinophils are the particular blood cells that show up during allergic reactions. It's not as simply as saying it's an allergic reaction, but it's a similar body response. It causes inflammation in the esophageal tissue which causes dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) and is most likely what is causing his aspiration. So, what do we do about it? Treat with Singulair, Prilosec, and steroids. And that's it. No g-tube necessary!!!!

There is a subspecialty in the GI clinic at CMH that specializes in these kids. One of the nurse practitioners from that office will call me tomorrow and I can talk through it with her. I should have a better idea exactly what the time frame is as far as treatment and reevaluating the swallow study.

But for now...God is awesome!!! What a Healer!!! We couldn't be more thrilled!!!

Val

8 comments:

Kristopher and Tracy said...

What an answer to prayer! We're so glad you have a diagnosis that doesn't require surgery!

Kathy Bryles said...

Oh, Valerie, we all are breathing a collective sigh of relief! That is great news.

From the Dotte said...

Whew. Wiping my brow.

Joyce said...

Wonderful news. So glad the tests, biopsies, scans, probes, mummy arms, needles, sleepless nights are done and unknowns are over. Well, maybe not the sleepless nights! LOL Praise the Lord.

Katie said...

Yay!! So excited and relieved for you guys! Praise God!

sara bonness said...

Truly, what a gift. We are celebrating with you!
hugs, chris and bob

Deb said...

That's the best news I've had this week! So thrilled for you all. God is good.

Lisa said...

Hi Val,
No surgery is wonderful news-I hope that he starts doing better though regardless-poor sweet boy!
Lisa