Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms Research Articles

Management of Ineffective Esophageal Hypomotility.

Esophageal hypomotility in general and especially ineffective esophageal motility according to the Chicago criteria of primary motility disorders of the esophagus, is one of the most frequently diagnosed motility disorders on high resolution manometry and results in a large number of patients visiting gastroenterologists. Most patients with esophageal hypomotility present with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms or dysphagia. The clinical relevance of the motility pattern, however, is not well established but seems to be correlated with disease severity in reflux patients. The correlation with dysphagia is less clear. Prokinetic agents are commonly prescribed as first line pharmacologic intervention to target esophageal smooth muscle contractility and improve esophageal motor functions. However, the beneficial effects of these medications are limited and only confined to some specific drugs. Serotonergic agents, including buspirone, mosapride and prucalopride have been shown to improve parameters of esophageal motility although the effect on symptoms is less clear. Understanding on the complex correlation between esophageal hypomotility and esophageal symptoms as well as the limited evidence of prokinetic agents is necessary for physicians to appropriately manage patients with Ineffective Esophageal Motility (IEM).

Effects of intragastric balloon in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and advanced fibrosis.

Effective therapy for clinically significant fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an unmet need. Data on the effectiveness of endoscopic placement of intragastric balloon (IGB) in patients with NAFLD are limited. In this study, we evaluated the impact of IGB placement in NAFLD patients with advanced fibrosis. We retrospectively assessed the effects of the Orbera™ fluid-filled IGB in a cohort of obese patients with liver stiffness ≥9.7kPa (corresponding to F3-F4). Patients with endoscopic signs of portal hypertension were excluded. Changes in metabolic and liver parameters from baseline to follow-up (6mo) were assessed. A total of 26 obese patients, aged 53 [44-62]years, with BMI 35.1±4.7kg/m2 were included. All patients achieved a significant body weight loss (106±19.7 vs. 92±18.3kg, P<.001) and waist circumference reduction (116±13.3 vs. 104±13.4kg, P<.001) at 6-month follow-up after IGB placement. Weight loss induced by IGB lowered blood glucose (140 [112; 169] vs. 118 [94; 144] mg/dl, P<.01), glycated hemoglobin (7.5±1.3 vs. 6.6±1.2%, P<.001), FIB-4 (3.2±0.7 vs. 2.7±0.8, P<.001), liver stiffness (13.3±3.2 vs. 11.3±2.8kPa, P<.001) and controlled attenuation parameter (355 [298-400] vs. 296 [255-352] dB/m, P<.01). Gastroesophageal reflux symptoms were common, but no severe adverse event was observed. Obese patients with advanced liver fibrosis, treated with 6-month IGB, can achieve regression of fibrosis as assessed by reduction of liver stiffness and FIB-4. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings.

Manometrically jackhammer esophagus with fluoroscopically/endoscopically distal esophageal spasm: a case report

BackgroundJackhammer esophagus is a rare esophageal motility disorder that can result in dysphagia, chest pain, and gastro-esophageal reflux symptoms. High-resolution manometry is the gold standard for diagnosis, while corkscrew esophagus on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is an uncommon manifestation.Case presentation72-year-old man who presented with progressive dysphagia for three months without symptoms of chest pain or heartburn. Initial workup showed a corkscrew esophagus on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy; subsequently, high-resolution manometry revealed an esophago-gastric junction outflow obstruction with hypercontractile (jackhammer) esophagus. Treatment with calcium channel blockers and proton pump inhibitors was successful and relieved his symptoms near completion.ConclusionsEven though the corkscrew esophagus is typically for distal esophageal spasm, the hypercontractile (jackhammer) esophagus can appear. The high-resolution manometry can help to distinguish each specific motility disorder.

Narrative review of the role of inflammation in gastroesophageal reflux disease. Can food allergies play a part?

AbstractAcid suppression is the accepted treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease, despite being ineffective in one third of patients. Certain conditions presenting as reflux may later be attributed to food allergy (infant cow's milk allergy; eosinophilic esophagitis), but the role of food allergy in adult reflux disease has rarely been investigated. The mechanisms of gastroesophageal reflux disease are examined to explore potential subgroups within the population, such as undisclosed food allergy, which may determine the responsiveness to treatment. The relevant literature was searched systematically using ProQuest Dialog, yielding 113 papers that were evaluated for quality. The extracted evidence was formed into a mechanistic diagram representing the processes of disease. As yet, insufficient research exists to evaluate the relationship between food allergies and reflux in adults. Of significance, however, is the potential for multiple variables to affect the integrity of the esophageal mucosa, thereby allowing symptoms to emerge which are independent of acid exposure. Where nonacidic drivers of inflammation exist, acid suppression is unlikely to offer adequate symptom resolution and may serve to explain the high proportion of nonresponders in this group. The review concludes that symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux may emerge in response to the coexistence of physiological reflux and esophageal mucosal inflammation. The latter may arise due to reflux‐induced acid erosion, or due to alternative endogenous sources of inflammation. When a patient presents with refractory reflux and a history of allergic disease, the role of antigen‐induced inflammation should be considered for further investigation. Nonallergic individuals presenting with refractory reflux symptoms may benefit from further analysis of relevant co‐morbidities that have the capacity to compromise mucosal integrity, including obesity or psychological stress. The identification of specific mediators of inflammation in refractory reflux disease may enable the development of personalized treatment regimes which improve outcomes and reduce the reliance on acid suppressants.

Preterm infants born prior to 32 weeks gestation experience more symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux in the first 6 months of life than infants born at later gestational ages

Preterm infants born prior to 32 weeks gestation experience more symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux in the first 6 months of life than infants born at later gestational ages

The Influence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease on Daytime Sleepiness and Depressive Symptom in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Background/AimsAs there is insufficient evidence for a relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), we investigated whether OSA diagnosed by polysomnography (PSG) is related to GERD.MethodsA total of 402 subjects was evaluated. Overnight PSG was performed and a few questionnaires on GERD, anxiety, depression, and daytime sleepiness were administered. An apnea-hypopnea index < 5 was the classification criterion for subjects without OSA. Subjects with heartburn or acid regurgitation at least once a week were classified as having GERD.ResultsAmong the 402 subjects, 318 had OSA and 84 did not. The prevalence of GERD was 12.9% among patients with OSA and 10.7% among those without (P = 0.590). The prevalence of GERD did not correlate with OSA severity (P = 0.474). Patients with OSA with GERD had higher Stanford Sleepiness Scale (P = 0.004), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (P = 0.001), and depression (P < 0.001) scores than patients with OSA without GERD. Subjects with nocturnal gastroesophageal reflux symptoms had a higher body mass index, waist-to-height ratio, and waist circumference-to-height index than those without symptoms. Multiple logistic regression showed that higher Epworth Sleepiness Scale and depression scores were independent factors associated with GERD in patients with OSA.ConclusionsThe prevalence of GERD in patients with OSA was 12.9%. The prevalence of GERD did not correlate with OSA severity. Daytime sleepiness and depression seem to be associated with GERD in patients with OSA, while nocturnal reflux symptoms seem to be related to obesity in OSA.

Dysphagia symptoms in obstructive sleep apnea: prevalence and clinical correlates

BackgroundEpidemiology of dysphagia and its drivers in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are poorly understood. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of dysphagia symptoms and their association with demographic and clinical factors in patients with OSA.MethodsPatients with OSA referring to an Academic Sleep Outpatient Clinic were enrolled in a prospective study. Demographic, clinical characteristics, and OSA symptoms were collected. All patients underwent home sleep cardiorespiratory polygraphy and the Eating-Assessment Tool questionnaire (EAT-10) to investigate dysphagia symptoms. Patients with a positive EAT-10 were offered to undergo a fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) to confirm the presence of dysphagia. FEES findings were compared with a healthy control group. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to assess predictors of dysphagia.Results951 patients with OSA (70% males, age 62 IQR51-71) completed the EAT-10, and 141 (15%) reported symptoms of dysphagia. Female gender (OR = 2.31), excessive daily sleepiness (OR = 2.24), number of OSA symptoms (OR = 1.25), anxiety/depression (OR = 1.89), and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux (OR = 2.75) were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with dysphagia symptoms. Dysphagia was confirmed in 34 out of 35 symptomatic patients that accepted to undergo FEES. Patients with OSA exhibited lower bolus location at swallow onset, greater pharyngeal residue, and higher frequency and severity of penetration and aspiration events than healthy subjects (p < 0.05).ConclusionA consistent number of patients with OSA show symptoms of dysphagia, which are increased in females and patients with a greater OSA symptomatology, anxiety and depression, and gastroesophageal reflux. The EAT-10 appears a useful tool to guide the selection of patients at high risk of dysphagia. In clinical practice, the integration of screening for dysphagia in patients with OSA appears advisable.

The semirecumbent position for high-resolution esophageal manometry. Results of a feasibility study.

Normative values for high-resolution manometry (HRM) have been obtained with the patient lying supine. The aim of the study was to compare supine, semirecumbent and sitting positions during HRM in terms of variation in normative metrics, diagnostic yield, and patient's comfort. A prospective, single-center feasibility study was planned in consecutive patients referred to the esophageal function laboratory. In each of the three positions, 10 consecutive 5 ml water swallows and three 10 ml multiple rapid swallows were administered. Validated reflux questionnaires were administered prior to the test, and a visual analogue scale (VAS) assessing the patient's comfort after the test. Twenty patients presenting with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms completed the study protocol. The intra-abdominal segment of the lower esophageal sphincter was significantly longer in the sitting position (P = 0.013), and the multiple rapid swallow distal contractile integral was lowest in the supine position (P = 0.012). The VAS comfort score did not significantly differ in the three body positions (P = 0.295). The concordance in the final diagnosis was 80% for semirecumbent vs. sitting (kappa = 0.15; P = 0.001), 70% for supine vs. sitting and 65.0% for semirecumbent vs. supine. Compared to the supine position, both the semirecumbent and sitting position seems to provide similar advantages. HRM metrics and the final manometric diagnosis may be affected by body position, but complementary maneuvers, such are the rapid drink challenge, can resolve diagnostic discrepancies and improve the overall accuracy of the test.

P97 Protocol for a Systematic Review of Robotic Anti-reflux surgery to Examine Reporting of an Innovative Procedure: The RoboSurg Study

Abstract Background Innovation in surgery is growing. The rigour of reporting of innovation must therefore be examined to ensure evaluations are thorough and transparent. The Idea, Development, Exploration, Assessmemt, Long-term follow-up (IDEAL) framework was developed in 2009 to help researchers evaluate innovative procedures. However, it is not known whether the IDEAL principles have been adopted into the reporting of robotic surgery. The aim of this study is to identify and summarise published literature for robotically assisted anti-reflux surgery, to understand whether evaluations are being performed in a robust way. Methods Systematic literature searches were undertaken to identify studies relating to robotic anti-reflux surgery. All primary research studies pertaining to robotically-assisted surgery for adults with symptomatic gastro-oesophageal reflux disease were included. Studies examining multiple interventions, where the outcomes could not be separated, were excluded. Data will be doubly extracted using tailored online forms. Data extraction themes include: study characteristics, technique description and evolution, governance/ethical factors and outcome reporting. Data will be synthesised into tables and summarised in a narrative synthesis. A meta-analysis will not be performed as we aim to examine reporting, rather than the efficacy of robotically-assisted anti-reflux surgery. Results 824 abstracts were identified, of which 80 were included for full text review. Summarised data will be used to propose a standard of reporting which will inform future work in the field. Conclusion The findings will feed in to the other six arms of RoboSurg to examine reporting in robotic upper gastrointestinal surgery more generally.

Low prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms in vegetarians.

Dietary modification could reduce the risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Circumstantial evidence suggests that gastroesophageal reflux is less prevalent in people adhering to a vegetarian diet. We aimed to study the relationship between vegetarianism and the occurrence of gastroesophageal reflux symptoms (GERS). This study compares the prevalence of GERS in vegetarians with non-vegetarian controls from the general population. Frequency and severity of GERS (heartburn and/or acid regurgitation) were assessed with a self-administrated questionnaire. Within 1 year, any GERS were experienced by 19 of 100 (19%) vegetarians and by 98 of 250 (39.2%) non-vegetarian controls (p < 0.001). Frequent GERS, defined as GERS on at least 1 day per week, were noted in 3% of vegetarians and in 12.8% of controls (p = 0.006). Reflux symptoms were significantly less severe in vegetarians than in non-vegetarians (p < 0.001). According to multivariable analysis, independent predictors of GERS included male sex, current smoking, BMI ≥ 25 (odds ratio [OR] = 1.94; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-3.31), and a non-vegetarian diet (OR = 2.19; 95% CI, 1.20-3.97); non-vegetarian diet independently predicted frequent GERS (OR 4.03; 95% CI, 1.17-13.9). An increased risk of GERS (OR = 2.17; 95% CI, 1.09-4.29) and frequent GERS (OR 4.00; 95% CI, 1.13-14.18) in non-vegetarians were also demonstrated by logistic regression of matched data. In non-vegetarians, the risk of reflux symptoms was not significantly related to meat intake. The prevalence and severity of GERS are lower in vegetarians than in non-vegetarians from the general population. The results are in line with a mitigating effect of vegetarianism on GERS. Data must be interpreted with caution given the retrospective study design and the small sample size.

Functional endoscopy in neurogenic dysphagia: a feasibility study focusing on the esophageal phase of swallowing.

Background and study aims Due to demographic transition, neurogenic dysphagia has become an increasingly recognized problem. Patients suffering from dysphagia often get caught between different clinical disciplines. In this study, we implemented a defined examination protocol for evaluating the whole swallowing process by functional endoscopy. Special focus was put on the esophageal phase of swallowing. Patients and methods This prospective observational multidisciplinary study evaluated 31 consecutive patients with suspected neurogenic dysphagia by transnasal access applying an ultrathin video endoscope. Thirty-one patients with gastroesophageal reflux symptoms were used as a control group. We applied a modified approach including standardized endoscopic positions to compare our findings with fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing and high-resolution manometry. The primary outcome measure was feasibility of functional endoscopy. Secondary outcome measures were adverse events (AEs), tolerability, and pathologic endoscopic findings. Results Functional endoscopy was successfully performed in all patients. No AEs were recorded. A variety of disorders were documented by functional endoscopy: incomplete or delayed closure of the upper esophageal sphincter in retroflex view, clearance disturbance of tubular esophagus, esophageal hyperperistalsis, and hypomotility. Analysis of results obtained with the diagnostic tools showed some discrepancies. Conclusions By interdisciplinary cooperation with additional assessment of the esophageal phase of deglutition using the innovative method of functional endoscopy, the diagnosis of neurogenic disorders including dysphagia may be significantly improved, leading to a better clinical understanding of complex dysfunctional patterns. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that a retroflex view of the ultrathin video endoscope within the esophagus can be safely performed. [NCT01995929]

Association between Sleep Quality and Gastroesophageal Reflux in Medical Students.

BACKGROUND Due to stressful occupational conditions, irregular dietary and sleep schedules, medical students are at increased risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders, gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) in particular, as well as sleep disturbances. Therefore, for the first time, we aimed to assess the correlation between GERD and sleep disturbances among medical students. METHODS The current cross-sectional study was done on 290 medical students at different study periods in Iran during 2018-2019. Age, sex, stage of studying, residence, and body mass index were gathered. The frequency scale for the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux (FSSG) was utilized to assess gastrointestinal symptoms among them and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to assess sleep quality. Eventually, the association of sleep disturbances with demographic factors and gastrointestinal symptoms was evaluated. RESULTS Living in the dormitory (p = 0.048; OR: 1.73; 95%CI: 1.01-2.99) and being overweight (p < 0.001; OR: 3.09; 95%CI: 1.58-6.06) were independently correlated with impaired sleep quality. GERD presented either by heartburn (p < 0.001) or regurgitation (p < 0.001) was associated with a lower quality of life. CONCLUSION GERD was correlated with poor sleep quality among medical students. In addition, residence in dormitory and being overweight were correlated with poor sleep quality.

Comorbid insomnia and sleep apnea: characterization of the syndrome and understanding its associations with comorbid sleep conditions

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is traditionally associated with excessive daytime sleepiness. Insomnia is characterized by hyperarousal, and is seen as a predominant feature in a subgroup of patients with OSA. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of comorbid insomnia and sleep apnea (COMISA) in a sleep apnea population and to characterize its features. This was a chart review of patients who underwent overnight polysomnography (PSG). All patients completed questionnaires with the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and symptoms of insomnia and other sleep-related comorbidities. Patients with OSA on the PSG were included. A total of 296 patients withOSA were included, of which 80% reported at least 1 major symptom of insomnia: 57% reported sleep onset insomnia, 68% sleep maintenance insomnia, and 48% had early morning awakenings. COMISA (OSA plus 2 or more major symptoms of insomnia) was seen in 63%. These patients were more likely to report an abnormal ESS score, gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and restless legs (RL) than those without; no difference was seen in self-reported sleep bruxism. Among the patients with COMISA, 85% reported at least 1 representative symptom of psychophysiological insomnia (PPI); each of the 5 PPI symptoms was present in at least 40% of patients with COMISA. Insomnia is extremely prevalent in our population of patients with OSA, accompanied by daytime sleepiness and symptoms of PPI, GER, and RL. Further study is needed to determine the interactions between symptoms and OSA treatments in these patients.

Optimal Timing for Cancer Screening and Adaptive Surveillance Using Mathematical Modeling.

Cancer screening and early detection efforts have been partially successful in reducing incidence and mortality, but many improvements are needed. Although current medical practice is informed by epidemiologic studies and experts, the decisions for guidelines are ultimately ad hoc. We propose here that quantitative optimization of protocols can potentially increase screening success and reduce overdiagnosis. Mathematical modeling of the stochastic process of cancer evolution can be used to derive and optimize the timing of clinical screens so that the probability is maximal that a patient is screened within a certain "window of opportunity" for intervention when early cancer development may be observable. Alternative to a strictly empirical approach or microsimulations of a multitude of possible scenarios, biologically based mechanistic modeling can be used for predicting when best to screen and begin adaptive surveillance. We introduce a methodology for optimizing screening, assessing potential risks, and quantifying associated costs to healthcare using multiscale models. As a case study in Barrett's esophagus, these methods were applied for a model of esophageal adenocarcinoma that was previously calibrated to U.S. cancer registry data. Optimal screening ages for patients with symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease were older (58 for men and 64 for women) than what is currently recommended (age > 50 years). These ages are in a cost-effective range to start screening and were independently validated by data used in current guidelines. Collectively, our framework captures critical aspects of cancer evolution within patients with Barrett's esophagus for a more personalized screening design. SIGNIFICANCE: This study demonstrates how mathematical modeling of cancer evolution can be used to optimize screening regimes, with the added potential to improve surveillance regimes. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT: http://cancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/canres/81/4/1123/F1.large.jpg.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in Neonates: Facts and Figures.

* Abbreviations: AAP: : American Academy of Pediatrics BPD: : bronchopulmonary dysplasia CMPA: : cow milk protein allergy GEJ: : gastroesophageal junction GER: : gastroesophageal reflux GERD: : gastroesophageal reflux disease H2RA: : histamine 2 receptor antagonist LES: : lower esophageal sphincter NASPGHAN: : North American Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition pH-MII: : multichannel intraluminal pH impedance PPI: : proton pump inhibitor SLESR: : swallow-associated lower esophageal sphincter relaxation SSI: : symptom sensitivity index TLESR: : transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation VLBW: : very low-birthweight Clinicians caring for premature infants need to recognize the natural history and pathophysiology of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and GER disease. Clinicians also need to make the most out of the diagnostic tools available in their clinical settings and offer the most appropriate therapy for these conditions, which constitute a significant burden to patients and to our health care system. After completing this article, readers should be able to: 1. Explain the terminology, mechanisms, and controversies surrounding gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in neonates. 2. Describe the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and risk factors of GER and GERD in neonates. 3. Explain the approach to evaluate, diagnose, and manage GERD in neonates. Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a normal physiologic process that occurs in all age groups. In healthy preterm infants, an average of 2 to 3 reflux events occur per hour, as has been reported using 24-hour pH impedance monitoring. (1) GER has historically been associated with a wide variety of behaviors commonly attributed to “GERD-like” symptoms in infants. (2) However, the association between a specific symptom and GER needs supporting data. (3) In the NICU infant, many of these symptoms may have multisystemic etiologies related to prematurity, chronic lung disease, and neuropathology, among others, rather than solely GER. Over the years, GER has remained a controversial topic for clinicians because of the challenges that entail its accurate diagnosis, as well as the uncertainty of treatment efficacy in symptomatic neonates. Furthermore, various studies have shown that histamine 2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs), proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), and prokinetics therapy may be associated with serious adverse outcomes in preterm infants. (4)(5)(6)(7) In addition, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) through the “Choosing Wisely in Newborn Medicine” initiative highlighted routine use of antireflux medications in symptomatic GER in preterm infants …

Head of bed elevation to relieve gastroesophageal reflux symptoms: a systematic review

BackgroundOveruse of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) – frequently used for relieving symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) – raises long-term safety concerns, warranting evidence-based non-drug interventions. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate the effect of head-of-bed elevation on relieving symptoms of GORD in adults.MethodsWe included controlled trials comparing the effect of head-of-bed elevation interventions to control in adults with GORD. Two independent reviewers screened articles, extracted data, and assessed quality of included studies. Primary outcomes were changes in GORD symptoms and use of PPIs.ResultsWe screened 1206 records; and included five trials (four cross-over and one factorial) comprising 228 patients. All five included trials were judged to be at high-risk of performance bias and four of selection bias. Of five included trials, two used ‘bed blocks’ under the bed legs; one used ‘sleeping on a wedge’ pillow, and two used both. High heterogeneity in outcome measures and reported outcomes data precluded meta-analyses. The four studies that reported on GORD symptoms found an improvement among participants in the head-of-bed elevation; a high-quality crossover trial showed a clinical important reduction in symptom scores at 6 weeks (risk ratio of 2.1; 95% CI 1.2 to 3.6). These results are supported by the observed improvement in physiological intra-oesophageal pH measurements.ConclusionsMethodological and reporting limitations in available literature preclude definitive recommendations. However, head-of-bed elevation could be still considered as a cheap and safe alternative to drug interventions with unfavourable safety profiles.Protocol registrationOpen Science Framework: http://osf.io/2hz3j

Effects of coexisting upper gastrointestinal symptoms on daily life and quality of life in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease symptoms.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common disease encountered in daily medical care and clinical problem which hampers daily life and reduces quality of life (QOL). The coexistence of GERD-related symptoms with the typical GERD symptoms, such as heartburn or acid regurgitation, and various upper abdominal symptoms is frequently observed in patients with GERD. However, the effect of these coexisting symptoms on the daily life and QOL of patients with GERD has not been clarified. Therefore, the effects of the various upper abdominal symptoms coexisting with GERD on the daily life and QOL of such patients were compared. A total of 113 newly diagnosed patients who visited our hospital with typical GERD symptoms were assessed using the modified frequency scale for the symptoms of GERD (MFSSG), gastroesophageal reflux and dyspepsia therapeutic efficacy and satisfaction test (GERD-TEST), and short-form 8-item health survey (SF-8) questionnaires. The "gastroesophageal reflux symptom" (7 items) and "dyspepsia symptom" (7 items) groups were divided into two "typical symptoms" and two "atypical symptoms" for a total of four categories. The Pearson's correlation coefficient and multiple regression analysis were used to evaluate the correlations between each symptom category and dissatisfaction for daily life [eating, sleeping, daily activities, mood, as well as dissatisfaction for daily life-symptom subscale (SS), which is the average of the four items in the GERD-TEST, the physical component summary [PCS] and mental component summary [MCS] of the SF-8, and the influence of each symptom category on the daily life and QOL. The incidences of each symptom category in patients with GERD were high: typical GERD (100%), atypical GERD symptoms (67.3%), typical functional dyspepsia (FD) (71.7%), and atypical FD (75.2%). Pearson's correlation analysis demonstrated significant correlations between each symptom category and living status (dissatisfactions of eating, sleeping, daily activities, daily life-SS) and almost all items in SF-8 (PCS, MCS) (P < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis indicated the largest influences of each symptom category on living status and QOL in descending order: dissatisfaction for eating (atypical FD, typical FD), daily activities (atypical FD, typical FD, typical GERD), mood (atypical FD), daily life-SS (atypical FD, typical FD), PCS (typical FD), and MCS (atypical FD) (P < 0.05). Coexisting FD symptoms, particularly atypical FD symptoms, had a large influence on the impairments of daily life and decreases in QOL. Daily medical care of GERD requires attention to coexisting symptoms and their treatment instead of just focusing on the chief complaints by patients.

The Gastrointestinal and Gastroesophageal Reflux (GIGER) Scale for Infants and Toddlers

The purpose of this study was to describe the development of the Gastrointestinal and Gastroesophageal Reflux (GIGER) Scale for Infants and Toddlers, and determine its factor structure and psychometric properties. Items were developed to comprehensively assess gastrointestinal (GI) and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) symptoms observable by a parent. Exploratory factor analysis on 391 responses from parents of children under 2 years old resulted in a 36-item scale with 3 subscales. Internal consistency reliability was acceptable (α = .78-.94). The GIGER total score and all 3 subscales were correlated with the Infant Gastroesophageal Reflux Questionnaire-Revised (I-GERQ-R) (P < .05) and Infant Gastrointestinal Symptoms Questionnaire (IGSQ) (P < .05). GIGER total score was higher in infants with a diagnosis of GER (P < .05) or constipation (P < .05) compared to those without. The GIGER is a parent-report measure of GI and GER symptoms in children under 2 years old with adequate psychometric properties.

WIRELESS PH MONITORING AND CONVENTIONAL ESOPHAGEAL PH MONITORING: COMPARATIVE STUDY OF DISCOMFORT, LIMITATIONS IN DAILY ACTIVITIES AND COMPLICATIONS.

ABSTRACT Background: The catheter of the esophageal pH monitoring is associated with nasal and throat discomfort, and different behave in patients. The capsule of the wireless pH monitoring may cause chest pain and complications. Aim: To compare the wireless and conventional pH monitoring concerning the degree of discomfort and limitations in daily activities, complications, ability to diagnose pathological reflux, and costs. Methods: Twenty-five patients with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux were prospectively submitted, in a simultaneous initial period, to 24-hour catheter esophageal pH monitoring and 48-hour wireless system. After removing each system, patients underwent a specific clinical questionnaire. Results: Fifteen patients (60%) pointed a higher discomfort in the introduction of the capsule (p=0.327). Discomfort and limitations in daily activities were lower on 2nd day (p<0.05); however, continued to be expressive (32% to 44%). Chest pain occurred in 13 (52%) patients. The diagnostic gain of pathological reflux was 12% with the wireless system (p=0.355). Conclusions: 1) There is no significant difference between the discomfort mentioned in the introduction of the capsule and the catheter; 2) during reflux monitoring, the wireless system provides significant less discomfort and limitations in daily activities; 3) there is no significant difference between the two methods in the ability to diagnose pathological reflux; 4) wireless pH monitoring has higher cost.

Prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms among People in a Village, Sherpur, Bangladesh

Prevalence of Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms among People in a Village, Sherpur, Bangladesh