Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Surgical Models of Gastroesophageal Reflux with Mice
Published on: August 25, 2015
Pathophysiological mechanisms of gastroesophageal reflux disease in children
1Centre for Paediatric and Adolescent Gastroenterology, Women's and Children's Hospital, North Adelaide SA 5006, Australia. davidsong@wch.sa.gov.au
Insights
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children is common, but recent advances in diagnostic tools have improved our understanding of its causes. This knowledge may lead to new treatments for this pediatric issue.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Digestive Physiology
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a prevalent condition in children.
- Understanding GER pathophysiology has advanced recently.
- Diagnostic capabilities have improved significantly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on GER pathophysiology in pediatrics.
- To discuss esophageal and gastric mechanisms involved in GER.
- To identify potential areas for new therapeutic interventions.
Main Methods:
- Review of current scientific literature.
- Analysis of investigative tools like endoscopy and pH monitoring.
- Inclusion of recent methods like micromanometry and breath tests.
Main Results:
- Improved understanding of GER mechanisms in infants and children.
- Identification of key esophageal and gastric factors contributing to GER.
- Highlighting the utility of advanced diagnostic techniques.
Conclusions:
- Recent advancements have enhanced the understanding of pediatric GER.
- Further research into therapeutic strategies is warranted.
- Improved diagnostics pave the way for targeted treatments.
Abstract:
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is an extremely common pediatric problem, but only in the past few years have we developed a better understanding of its pathophysiology. This is related to the wider use of investigative tools such as flexible endoscopy, 24-hour pH monitoring, and more recently, micromanometric methods and noninvasive breath tests, which have been particularly useful in infants. This paper reviews our current understanding of the esophageal and gastric mechanisms contributing to the pathophysiology of GER. In this context, we also highlight areas where new therapeutic approaches may be beneficial.
Related Concept Videos
Pathophysiology of Peptic Ulcer Disease: Injurious Factors
In the antrum region, G cells secrete the gastrin hormone that binds to gastrin-cholecystokinin-B (CCK2) receptors on parietal and enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells in the fundic glands. Simultaneously, the vagus nerve releases acetylcholine, which binds to M3...
Pathophysiology of Peptic Ulcer Disease: Mucosal Defense Factors
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease I: Meaning and Pathophysiology
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Gastritis-II: Pathophysiology
In acute gastritis, the gastric mucosa becomes swollen and red and undergoes superficial erosion. Superficial ulceration may lead to bleeding.
In chronic gastritis, persistent or repeated insults lead to chronic inflammatory changes and, eventually, thinning or atrophy of the gastric tissue.
Gastritis can stem from various causes, each...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

