[Clinical manifestations in pediatric laryngopharyngeal reflux]

To explore the clinical manifestations in pediatric laryngopharyngeal reflux and to provide more information on diagnosis and treatment.

Sixty-two cases with recurrent respiratory infections, hoarseness and chronic cough were examined with reflux symptom index (RSI), reflux finding score (RFS), and 24-hour pH monitoring. Those who had at least two positive test for reflux were given PPI for diagnostic therapy.

All patients completed reflux symptom index (RSI) questionnaire and underwent fiberoptic laryngoscopy, and reflux finding score (RFS) was evaluated. The positive rate of RSI and RFS was 91.94% and 79.03% differently. 24-hours pH monitoring and diagnostic therapy was about 30.76% and 85.48% differently. The symptoms show hoarseness 90.32%, postnasal drip 77.42%, difficulty swallowing 74.19%, abdominal pain and chest pain 72.58%, throat clearing 64.52%, chronic cough 56.45%, dysphagia 51.61%, throat abnormal feeling 48.39%. Laryngoscope examination shows inter-arytenoid erythema 100%, vocal mucosal oedema 75.81%, diffuse laryngeal edema 50.00%, posterior commissure hypertrophy 33.87%, subglottic edema 4.84%, no granuloma case. There was 16 cases showing positive in 24-hours pH monitoring test. The positive rate was 30.76%. All cases accepted diagnostic therapy. Fifty-three cases were effective. The positive rate was 85.48%.

There are no clinical presentations specific to pediatric laryngopharyngeal reflux. Patients often present with a wide range of atypical symptoms and signs. RSI questionnaire and RFS may provide diagnostic datas. Primary treatment includes lifestyle and medical therapy.