SUMMARY
Mayo Clinic researcher Amindra S. Arora, M.B., B.Chir., has a broad interest in esophageal diseases. He described an adult cause of dysphagia, or difficulty in swallowing, which may have been overlooked for some time. This overlooked swallowing condition is known as eosinophilic esophagitis. Gastroesophageal reflux, reflux esophagitis, achalasia, Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer are other esophageal conditions that Dr. Arora studies.
He has an interest in medical school education and has described different ways of teaching students. Dr. Arora uses small group sessions, rather than lectures, to help students retain information and show the students the relevance of their studies to people's care.
Focus areas
- Therapies for eosinophilic esophagitis. Dr. Arora establishes the effectiveness of various therapies for eosinophilic esophagitis including diet, medicines and dilation.
- Endoscopic or surgical therapies for achalasia. Dr. Arora studies the effectiveness of various endoscopic or surgical therapies for achalasia and regular follow-ups to check for reflux.
- Education. Dr. Arora is a faculty member of the Mayo Clinic for the gastrointestinal pathophysiology course and is the associate editor for the Mayo Clinic Health Letter.
Significance to patient care
Findings from clinical studies involving multiple disciplines have allowed for a more complete evaluation of people seeking treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis or achalasia. This improves people's knowledge and decision-making when choosing a treatment.
Dr. Arora identifies the facts that contribute to long-term success following various therapies for achalasia and eosinophilic esophagitis.