Esofagitis, esofagitis por reflujo y enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico

Abstract

Esophagitis is defined as the presence of inflammatory disease in different layers of the esophagus. It is a common disease that has a wide variety of causes, with reflux esophagitis being the most frequent. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is defined as the onset of symptoms or lesions secondary to sustained pathological reflux. The main triggering mechanism is transient relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. Clinically, it can give rise to typical manifestations (pyrosis and regurgitation) as well as extraesophageal manifestations. It is a chronic disease with a generally benign course, although it can lead to complications such as esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus and risk of progression to esophageal adenocarcinoma. In clinical practice, GERD is diagnosed empirically and treated based on the symptoms recorded by the clinician, although performing an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and other additional tests are sometimes required for diagnosis and to rule out complications. Treatment is based on a combination of hygienic-dietary measures and medical treatment based on proton pump inhibitors. On some occasions, resorting to surgical treatment may be required.