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Biliary laryngopharyngeal reflux: a new pathological entity
Jacopo Galli1, Giovanni Cammarota, Eugenio De Corso
1Institute of Otorhinolaryngology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
Summary
Duodeno-gastro-esophageal reflux damages the upper aerodigestive tract, potentially causing laryngeal disorders and malignancies. New therapies should address both gastric and duodenal reflux components.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
- Oncology
Background:
- Duodeno-gastro-esophageal reflux (DGER) is known to damage esophageal mucosa.
- Emerging evidence links DGER to various laryngeal disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of DGER's harmful effects on the upper aerodigestive tract.
- To explore the association between DGER and laryngeal lesions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on DGER and upper aerodigestive tract mucosa.
- Analysis of clinical and experimental data on reflux-related laryngeal pathologies.
Main Results:
- DGER contributes to inflammatory and neoplastic changes in the esophagus.
- Clinical studies indicate DGER may increase the risk of laryngeal malignancies, especially post-gastric resection.
- Experimental data suggests duodenal contents can cause inflammation and carcinogenesis in the pharynx and larynx.
Conclusions:
- DGER is associated with laryngeal lesions, potentially termed biliary laryngopharyngeal reflux.
- This reflux is an endogenous risk factor for inflammatory, precancerous, and neoplastic laryngeal conditions.
- Future research and treatment should consider both gastric and duodenal reflux components.