Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 3, 2026

Surgical Models of Gastroesophageal Reflux with Mice
Published on: August 25, 2015
Gastroesophageal reflux in children: clinical manifestations, diagnosis, pathophysiology, and therapy
Insights
Diagnosing and treating pediatric gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) requires careful evaluation. Diagnostic tests and medical or surgical interventions, like Nissen fundoplications, offer excellent outcomes for children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Gastrointestinal Disorders
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in children presents diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline diagnostic approaches for pediatric GER.
- To describe treatment strategies for GER in infants and children.
Main Methods:
- History and physical examination are primary diagnostic tools.
- Esophageal manometry, Tuttle test, and Bernstein test aid in reflux confirmation.
- Esophagoscopy with biopsies identifies esophagitis or strictures.
Main Results:
- Medical management is recommended for 3-6 weeks for most cases.
- Surgical intervention (Nissen fundoplication) is indicated for medical failures, strictures, or severe malnutrition.
- Surgical correction yields excellent prognosis.
Conclusions:
- A systematic approach combining diagnostic tests and tailored treatment is effective for pediatric GER.
- Prompt and appropriate intervention improves patient outcomes.
Abstract:
Gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children is a challenging diagnostic problem. A careful history and physical examination are of foremost importance. In infants, the esophageal manometry study and the Tuttle test are helpful in confirming gastroesophageal reflux. In older children, these two studies as well as the Bernstein test should be done to document reflux. The presence of esophagitis or esophageal strictures is best determined by esophagoscopy with concomitant grasp or suction biopsies. A medical regimen should be tried for three to six weeks in all children except those with esophageal strictures or severe malnutrition. Medical failures should be treated surgically with Nissen fundoplications, performed by a competent pediatric surgeon. The prognosis for children undergoing surgical correction is excellent.
Related Concept Videos
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease I: Meaning and Pathophysiology
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease II: Clinical Features and Management
Clinical Manifestations
GERD presents itself in a multitude of ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. The hallmark symptoms are...
Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

