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A primary care approach to pediatric gastroesophageal reflux

B Sunku1, R V Marino, R Sockolow

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Winthrop-University Hospital, Mineola, NY, USA.

The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association
|February 24, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Gastroesophageal reflux, a common issue in children, involves stomach contents flowing back into the esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) requires medical or surgical treatment when complications arise.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders

Background:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is prevalent in pediatric patients, characterized by the retrograde passage of gastric contents into the esophagus.
  • Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations are considered a primary cause of GER.
  • Infants typically exhibit regurgitation, while older children may present with esophagitis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in the pediatric population.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on GERD in children.
  • Discussion of diagnostic tools including barium swallow, pH probe, scintigraphy, and endoscopy with biopsy.
  • Overview of medical and surgical treatment options.

Main Results:

  • GERD can manifest with significant respiratory symptoms and pathological esophageal changes.
  • Diagnostic procedures aid in assessing the severity and impact of GERD.
  • Management strategies include pharmacotherapy (prokinetic agents, acid suppression) and, less commonly, surgery.

Conclusions:

  • GERD is a condition with potential severe consequences in children, necessitating accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment.
  • Both medical and surgical interventions play a role in managing pediatric GERD.

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