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Prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux in infants with recurrent brief apneic episodes

S Sheikh1, T C Stephen, B Sisson

  • 1Columbus Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio 43205, USA.

Canadian Respiratory Journal
|November 26, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) was found in nearly half of infants with brief apneic episodes. This suggests GER may be a significant risk factor for infant apnea, though the exact relationship requires further study.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Gastroenterology
  • Neonatology

Background:

  • Infant apnea presents diagnostic challenges for pediatricians.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a potential, though controversial, factor in infant apnea pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of GER in infants experiencing recurrent brief apneic episodes.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 105 infants undergoing prolonged esophageal pH studies for brief apneic episodes (1992-1997).
  • Exclusion of infants with apparent life-threatening episodes.
  • Analysis of pH study results and associated symptoms.

Main Results:

  • 47.6% of infants (50/105) showed positive esophageal pH studies for acid reflux.
  • The majority of infants studied (68.6%) were under two months old; 21% were preterm.
  • Only 42% of infants with positive reflux studies had concurrent gastrointestinal or feeding issues.

Conclusions:

  • A significant number of infants with brief apneic episodes exhibit GER.
  • GER may be an important risk factor for infant apneic episodes.
  • Further research is needed to fully establish the causal link between GER and infant apnea.
Abstract

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