[Duodenogastroesophageal reflux- and esophagitis-induced disease]

Our objective was to determine the relationship between reflux of duodenogastric contents with different degrees of esophagitis, and its levels and activity, with regard to the severity of esophagitis-induced duodenogastroesophageal reflux disease (DGERD).

Our study design was prospective, transversal, descriptive, observational, and open. We took samples of gastric and esophageal juices from patients with a diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and esophagitis during the period from March to August 2002. Sample material was placed in black rubber-covered assay tubes to prevent bilirubin degradation. In our Unit's central laboratory, these samples were centrifuged for 30 min, the dissolved material separated, and a reactive strip was introduced to measure the amount of bile pigment. Endoscopic study reports were provided by this Department on terminating the procedure. Univariate analysis was used to obtain results.

In 60% of cases, the esophageal liquid was positive for total bilirubin; 40% presented stage II esophagitis, 27% chronic esophagitis, and 27%, stage I esophagitis. Specific quantifications of total bilirubin at different stages of esophagitis demonstrated in stage II 50% with levels of 0.1-1, 33% with a level of 2-3, in cases of chronic esophagitis 75% with levels of 0.1-1, and with stage I esophagitis, 25% with levels of 2-3 mg/dl. Measurement of gastric pH showed 18 (69%) <3 and esophageal pH of 20 (67%) > 4, with 10 (33%) referring occasional or asymptomatic dyspepsia. We determined presence of duodenal elements in esophagus by means of quantification of total bilirubin in 60% of patients, observing greatest frequency of stage II esophagitis. Low but continuous levels of duodenal, principally biliary, elements continued in patients with DGERD, producing greatest damage in esophageal mucosa.