Observations of increased gastroesophageal reflux symptomology in an anhydrous ammonia exposed population

This case series describes a cohort of patients exposed to anhydrous ammonia vapors with clinical findings of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). The study characterizes the identification of LPR as a consequence of vapor inhalation and the utility of PPI therapy in LPR secondary to inhalational ammonia exposure.

This is a case series of 15 patients exposed to anhydrous ammonia from a single chemical spill who experienced LPR several months after exposure. Symptoms of LPR were assessed at their initial consultation and by phone at least 30 days after treatment with low-dose PPI or diet modification. At this visit, patients underwent complete head and neck examination and flexible direct laryngoscopy.

15 patients were available for analysis before and after treatment. 93.3 % experienced at least three cardinal symptoms of LPR. 66 % of these patients had at least one LPR finding on flexible laryngoscopy. 73 % were treated with daily standard dose PPI, and 82 % of these patients experienced reduction of symptoms after 30 days of PPI treatment. Four of 15 patients were not taking the PPI as prescribed, and only one of these patients had resolution of LPR symptoms.

We conclude that there is an association between anhydrous ammonia exposure and the development of LPR symptoms. In this study, treatment with PPIs was successful in reducing symptoms for most patients, and patients who did not receive PPIs experienced symptoms for a longer time.