[Relationship between gastroesophageal reflux and severe malaise in infants]

The relationship between gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) has been widely investigated. Reflux-induced apnoea is triggered through a vagal mechanism. During acute phases of sleep, the different means of protection of the upper respiratory tract are blunted, awakening reactions are cancelled or delayed and hypoxemia occurs rapidly. GER could play a leading part in SIDS occurring during this acute phase of sleep. Numerous studies are needed to further dismantle the link between SIDS and GER. In children with severe malaise, a systematic search for GER is mandatory.