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Pediatric airway manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux

D M Burton1, S M Pransky, R M Katz

  • 1Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Children's Hospital and Health Center, San Diego, California.

The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology
|September 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children can cause serious airway issues like stridor and cough. Early diagnosis of silent GER is key for managing these pediatric complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children can be physiologic or pathologic.
  • GER can lead to various head and neck complications in pediatric patients.

Observation:

  • Airway manifestations are the most common complications of GER in children.
  • These include stridor, recurrent croup, subglottic stenosis exacerbation, laryngeal irritation, chronic cough, and obstructive apnea.
  • Diagnosis can be challenging, often requiring a high index of suspicion for GER, especially "silent" GER.

Findings:

  • This study details common pediatric airway manifestations of GER.
  • Case reports illustrate these presentations.
  • A diagnostic and management paradigm for GER-associated airway compromise is provided.

Implications:

  • Increased awareness of GER's airway effects can improve pediatric diagnosis.
  • Early identification and management of GER are crucial for children with airway symptoms.
  • This paradigm assists clinicians in managing complex pediatric GER cases.

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