Extra-esophageal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common medical condition affecting approximately 35-40% of the adult population in the western world. The role of GERD in causing extra-esophageal symptoms including laryngitis, asthma, cough, chest pain, and dental erosions is increasingly recognized with renewed interest among gastroenterologists and other specialists. Direct injury by mucosal contact, and vagally mediated reflex from distal esophageal acid exposure are the two possible mechanisms by which reflux-related extra-esophageal tissue injuries may occur. Several investigational techniques may be used to diagnose gastroesophageal reflux; however, because of the poor sensitivity of endoscopy and pH monitoring, and the poor specificity of laryngoscopy, empiric therapy with proton-pump inhibitors (PPI) is now considered the initial diagnostic step in patients suspected of having GERD-related symptoms. In those who improve with such therapy, it is likely that GERD may be the cause of the extra-esophageal presentation. In those who are unresponsive to such therapy, other diagnostic testing such as impedance/pH monitoring may be reasonable in order to exclude continued acid or weakly acid reflux. However, PPI-unresponsive patients usually have causes other than GERD for the extra-esophageal symptoms and signs.