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Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring
Published on: December 14, 2020
Laryngopharyngeal reflux: current concepts and questions
Reena Gupta1, Robert Thayer Sataloff
1Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, USA.
Current Opinion in Otolaryngology & Head and Neck Surgery
|April 28, 2009
Summary
Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) diagnosis and treatment remain controversial and lack robust evidence. Further research is crucial to clarify LPR pathophysiology, establish diagnostic standards, and confirm treatment efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
- Digestive Health
Background:
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a recognized condition, but its underlying mechanisms, diagnosis, and management are still debated.
- Despite extensive research, definitive understanding and consensus on LPR remain elusive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on laryngopharyngeal reflux.
- To identify areas of controversy and future research opportunities in LPR.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on laryngopharyngeal reflux.
- Analysis of existing studies on LPR pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Main Results:
- Histological evidence confirms acid-induced changes in laryngopharyngeal mucosa, but their clinical significance is unclear.
- LPR diagnosis lacks standardized, evidence-based norms, leading to controversy.
- Treatment efficacy, particularly with proton pump inhibitors, is largely unproven, despite widespread clinical belief.
Conclusions:
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux diagnosis remains controversial.
- Weak evidence supports or refutes current treatments like proton pump inhibitors.
- Well-designed studies are needed to elucidate LPR's diagnosis, treatment, pathophysiology, and long-term health effects.
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