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Is the macroscopic aspect of the esophagus at endoscopy indicative of reflux esophagitis?
Insights
Gastroesophageal reflux was investigated in children with chronic obstructive respiratory disease (CORD). Reflux acidity correlated with the severity of endoscopic esophagitis, indicating clinical relevance.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Chronic obstructive respiratory disease (CORD) in children can be multifactorial.
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a potential contributing factor to respiratory symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and significance of gastroesophageal reflux in children diagnosed with CORD.
- To correlate reflux characteristics with endoscopic findings of esophagitis.
Main Methods:
- Prolonged pH monitoring was utilized in 51 children with CORD.
- A reflux aggressivity index, considering duration and acidity, was calculated.
- Endoscopic evaluation of the esophagus was performed.
Main Results:
- A significant relationship was observed between the calculated reflux aggressivity index and endoscopic findings.
- Children with an elevated acidity index exhibited more severe endoscopic esophagitis.
- Normal, erythematous, and destructive esophagitis were identified.
Conclusions:
- The severity of endoscopic esophagitis in children with CORD is linked to gastroesophageal reflux.
- Esophageal findings at endoscopy hold clinical relevance in the context of CORD and reflux.
Abstract:
Gastroesophageal reflux was looked for in 51 children with chronic obstructive respiratory disease (CORD) using prolonged pH monitoring. An index of reflux aggressivity dependent on both duration and acidity of refluxed material was calculated. This index was significantly related to the macroscopic endoscopic findings, patients with an elevated acidity index having more severe "endoscopic esophagitis" than patients with a normal acidity index. We conclude that the finding of normal, erythematous or destructive esophagitis at endoscopy has at least some clinical relevance.