Prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux in infants with recurrent brief apneic episodes.

Abstract

Apnea in an infant can be a diagnostic dilemma for the treating pediatrician. It is suggested that in some infants, gastroesophageal reflux (GER) might be a factor in the pathogenesis of apnea, although its role as a cause of apnea is still controversial. To evaluate the prevalence of GER in infants presenting with recurrent brief apneic periods. A retrospective review of the medical records of all the infants who underwent prolonged esophageal pH studies for brief apneic episodes (n=105) at the Kosair Children's Hospital in the six years from January 1992 to December 1997 was performed. Infants presenting with apparent life-threatening episodes were excluded. Of 105 infants, 72 (68.6%) were younger than two months of age and 22 (21%) were born preterm. Fifty of 105 infants (47.6%) had positive esophageal pH studies for acid reflux. Among infants with positive pH studies, only 21 (42%) had associated gastrointestinal or feeding complaints. GER is present in a large number of infants presenting with brief apneic episodes. Though the relationship between the two is still not fully established, GER may be a significant risk factor for such apneic episodes in infants.