[Long-term observation of children with gastro-esophageal reflux disease]

Izabela Jastrzebska1, Krzysztof Fyderek

  • 1Klinika Pediatrii, Gastroenterologii i Zywienia, Uniwersytet Jagielloński Collegium Medicum w Krakowie. dobosz@mp.pl

Przeglad Lekarski
|April 25, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children over one year old rarely resolves completely. Acid reflux can persist even without noticeable symptoms, indicating a chronic condition.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Gastrointestinal Disorders
  • Clinical Research

Context:

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common in children, often viewed as transient.
  • Understanding GERD's natural history in pediatric populations is crucial for effective management.
  • This study investigates the long-term outcomes of GERD in infants and children.

Purpose:

  • To assess the natural history and long-term symptom resolution of GERD in pediatric patients.
  • To evaluate the persistence of acid reflux in children diagnosed with GERD.
  • To compare GERD outcomes across different age groups in children.

Summary:

  • A cohort of 163 children diagnosed with GERD underwent follow-up after 3.5 years.
  • Symptom resolution rates were significantly higher in infants under 1 year (45%) compared to older children (13.4-14.3%).
  • Pathologic acid reflux persisted in 54% of patients, including asymptomatic cases, highlighting the chronic nature of GERD in older children.

Impact:

  • GERD symptoms are unlikely to resolve completely in children over one year of age.
  • Subclinical acid reflux may persist in pediatric GERD patients.
  • Findings suggest GERD may be a more chronic condition in children than previously assumed, necessitating ongoing monitoring.
Abstract

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