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Updated: May 5, 2026

Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring
Published on: December 14, 2020
Normal esophageal physiology and laryngopharyngeal reflux
Dhyanesh Patel1, Michael F Vaezi
1Department of Internal Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
Abstract:
Understanding the basic anatomy and physiology contributing to esophageal peristalsis can help with comprehension of esophageal disease states. Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), an extraesophageal variant of gastroesophageal reflux disease, is retrograde movement of gastric contents into the laryngopharynx and is associated with hoarseness, chronic cough, throat clearing, sore throat, and dysphagia. Various direct and indirect mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to LPR. The current diagnostic tests for LPR have significant shortcomings. This article reviews the anatomy and physiology of upper esophageal sphincter, esophagus, and lower esophageal sphincter, and discusses current understanding of pathophysiology, evaluation, and management of LPR.
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