Home About us Contact | |||
Gastroesophageal Reflux (gastroesophageal + reflux)
Terms modified by Gastroesophageal Reflux Selected AbstractsHelicobacter pylori Infection and Gastroesophageal Reflux in a Population-Based Study (The HUNT Study)HELICOBACTER, Issue 1 2007Helena Nordenstedt Abstract Background and Aim:, It has been suggested that Helicobacter pylori infection may prevent gastroesophageal reflux, possibly through gastric atrophy. Since, however, previous results are contradictory and no population-based studies are available, the relationship between H. pylori and reflux remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate this relationship in a population-based, nested, case-control study. Methods:, From a cohort of 65,363 individuals, representing 71.2% of the adult population in the Norwegian county of Nord-Trondelag, we randomly selected 472 persons with recurrent reflux symptoms (cases) and 472 without such symptoms (controls). Occurrence of H. pylori and its virulence factor cagA was determined serologically, using an immunoblot assay. Gastric atrophy was assessed through serum levels of pepsinogen I. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusted for potential confounding factors, represented relative risks. Results:,H. pylori infection was not associated with a decreased risk of reflux symptoms (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8,1.6), irrespective of positive cagA status (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8,1.5). Gastric atrophy reduced the risk of reflux symptoms (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.0,0.6). Infection with H. pylori entailed a ninefold increase in the risk of gastric atrophy compared to non-infection (OR 8.9, 95% CI 2.0,39.9). Conclusions:,H. pylori infection, irrespective of cagA status, did not affect the occurrence of reflux symptoms in this population-based setting. Infected individuals are at increased risk of gastric atrophy, which in turn reduces reflux symptoms, but due to the low frequency of gastric atrophy among infected individuals overall, there was no association with reflux symptoms on a population level. [source] Gastroesophageal Reflux and Obstructive Sleep Apnea,THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 12 2001Brent A. Senior MD Abstract Objective To determine the extent to which gastroesophageal reflux (GER)-initiated laryngeal chemoreflexes contribute to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods Prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial of an antireflux treatment protocol as a means of reducing the severity of OSA. Population consisted of 10 males aged 20 to 64 years with confirmed OSA (by overnight polysomnography) and GER (by ambulatory pH probe monitoring). Patients were treated with omeprazole and standard antireflux protocol for 30 days and pre- and posttreatment polysomnography variables were compared. Results Mean apnea index declined 31% (45,31, P = .04); mean respiratory disturbance index declined 25% (62,46, P = .06). Three patients (30%) are "treatment responders" as defined by traditional OSA treatment definitions. Conclusions These results suggest a potential relationship between OSA and GER, the treatment of which may be an effective adjunctive in those with both disorders. Treatment of GER may significantly impact OSA in select individuals. [source] Gastroesophageal reflux: prevalence of psychopathological disorders and quality of life implicationsDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 5 2006Á. Díaz de Liaño SUMMARY., There is evidence in the literature that psychosocial aspects affect the symptoms and results of surgery for gastroesophageal reflux. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of psychopathological disorders measured using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) in a sample of patients with gastroesophageal reflux, and to assess the influence of such disorders on their quality of life. A prospective study was conducted in 74 consecutive patients before gastroesophageal reflux surgery; patients answered the GHQ-28, the health questionnaire SF-36, and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). The convergent validity of the GHQ-28 questionnaire as compared to the other two questionnaires and preoperative quality of life was tested. A pathological result of the GHQ-28 questionnaire was found in 38.3% of patients. A correlation was seen between the results of the GHQ-28 questionnaire and all categories of the SF-36 and GIQLI questionnaires. Patients with pathological results in the GHQ-28 questionnaire had poorer results in all dimensions of the SF-36 and GIQLI quality of life questionnaires as compared to patients with a normal result in the GHQ-28 questionnaire. In conclusion, 38.3% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux showed psychopathological disorders when administered the GHQ-28 questionnaire. These patients also had poorer results in quality of life studies. [source] Gastroesophageal reflux before and after Helicobacter pylori eradication.DISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 4 2003A prospective study using ambulatory 24-h esophageal pH monitoring SUMMARY, The aim of this study was to assess prevalence of GERD before and after Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication utilizing 24-h esophageal pH/manometry studies. Helicobacter pylori status was confirmed by the Campylobacter like organism test. Those testing positive underwent 24-h pH/manometry followed by HP eradication therapy and urea breath test. Patients were followed up at 6 months and then at 1 year when they underwent a repeat 24-h pH/manometry. Twenty patients, 10 with non-ulcer dyspepsia (NUD) and 10 with duodenal ulcer (DU) were enrolled, though only 10 patients attended for a repeat 24-h pH/manometry study. The patients were well matched, though patients with NUD had a significantly higher symptom score at entry compared with the DU group (8.5 vs 5.7, P < 0.05). The pH and esophageal manometry data were similar in the two groups. Overall nine patients (45%; DU = 5, NUD = 4) had evidence of GERD prior to HP eradication and it persisted one year after cure of the infection. The reflux disease occurred in the presence of normal LES pressure (mean 15.6 ± 3.3 mmHg). New onset GERD was uncommon after cure of HP infection, occurring in only one patient with NUD. Overall HP eradication had no impact on percentage of time pH < 4 (4.69 ± 3 vs 4.79 ± 3), episodes > 5 min (9.8 ± 16 vs 15.5 ± 25.3) and Johnson DeMeester Score (16.8 ± 7.5 vs 26.8 ± 18). In addition successful cure of HP produced no significant changes in LES pressure (17.9 ± 3.8 mmHg vs 19.3 ± 4.6 mmHg), and other esophageal manometry data. Half of HP-positive patients with NUD and DU have evidence of GERD before HP eradication. This persists after successful cure of the infection. New onset GERD occurs very uncommonly one year after HP eradication. [source] Gastroesophageal reflux is a major cause of lung disease-proPEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY, Issue S26 2004Nemr S. Eid MD No abstract is available for this article. [source] The nervous system and gastrointestinal functionDEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES RESEARCH REVIEW, Issue 2 2008Muhammad A. Altaf Abstract The enteric nervous system is an integrative brain with collection of neurons in the gastrointestinal tract which is capable of functioning independently of the central nervous system (CNS). The enteric nervous system modulates motility, secretions, microcirculation, immune and inflammatory responses of the gastrointestinal tract. Dysphagia, feeding intolerance, gastroesophageal reflux, abdominal pain, and constipation are few of the medical problems frequently encountered in children with developmental disabilities. Alteration in bowel motility have been described in most of these disorders and can results from a primary defect in the enteric neurons or central modulation. The development and physiology of the enteric nervous system is discussed along with the basic mechanisms involved in controlling various functions of the gastrointestinal tract. The intestinal motility, neurogastric reflexes, and brain perception of visceral hyperalgesia are also discussed. This will help better understand the pathophysiology of these disorders in children with developmental disabilities. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2008;14:87,95. [source] Influence of psychopathological changes on quality of life after laparoscopic fundoplication for the treatment of gastroesophageal refluxDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 1 2010Á. Díaz de Liaño SUMMARY There are references in medical literature to the influence of psychopathological changes and their negative impact on the results of laparoscopic fundoplication. The objective of this study is to analyze the influence of psychological changes, as assessed by the General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28), on patients undergoing surgery for gastroesophageal reflux. This is a prospective study in a series of 103 consecutive patients (62 males and 41 females with a mean age of 40 years) undergoing laparoscopic fundoplication. In addition to functional studies, patients completed the SF-36, Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index, and GHQ-28 before surgery. Functional tests and questionnaires were repeated 6 months after surgery. Patients were also questioned about their degree of satisfaction. Postoperative results of patients with a normal GHQ-28 and patients showing psychopathological changes as defined by the GHQ-28 questionnaire before surgery were compared. Overall, all patients experienced an improvement in their quality of life. Forty-one patients showed a pathological result in the preoperative GHQ-28 questionnaire. No differences were found in functional results and degree of satisfaction with surgery between patients with normal and pathological results in the preoperative GHQ-28 questionnaire. However, patients with a pathological result in the preoperative GHQ-28 had poorer results in all domains of the postoperative Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index and SF36 quality of life questionnaires as compared to patients with a normal preoperative GHQ-28 questionnaire. Patients with pathological results in the preoperative GHQ-28 had poorer results in terms of postoperative quality of life despite having normal postoperative physiological studies; this decreased quality of life did not have an impact on the degree of satisfaction with surgery performed. The GHQ-28 does not therefore appear to serve as a predictor of postoperative satisfaction. [source] Outcomes of surgical treatment of intrathoracic stomachDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 3 2009F. Yano SUMMARY The purpose of this study is to assess the long-term outcomes after surgical repair of intrathoracic stomach. Prospectively collected data was retrospectively reviewed. Patients underwent a phone questionnaire 1 year postoperatively to assess gastroesophageal reflux disease-related symptoms and surgical satisfaction. In addition, objective evaluation for integrity of hiatal hernia repair was undertaken either by esophagram or endoscopy. Any recurrence was considered a failure. Forty-one patients underwent surgical repair of a large paraesophageal hernia with intrathoracic stomach during the study period. Thirty-four patients underwent a laparoscopic repair, and seven patients underwent a transthoracic repair. An antireflux procedure was performed on 28 patients, and 13 patients had only hernia reduction and hiatal closure. In the laparoscopic group, two patients required conversion to open laparotomy, as one was unable to tolerate the pneumoperitoneum, and the other had mediastinal bleeding. Thirty-eight (93%) were available for 1-year follow-up. There were three (7.8%) recurrences, one requiring emergency transabdominal repair, and the other two being asymptomatic 1-cm recurrences. All patients report a high degree of satisfaction with surgery. There is a high incidence of short esophagus in patients with intrathoracic stomach. The surgical repair is safe and durable, with high patient satisfaction at 1-year follow-up. [source] Surgical treatment of esophageal leiomyoma located near or at the esophagogastric junction via a thoracoscopic approachDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 2 2009Z. G. Li SUMMARY Esophageal leiomyoma can be enucleated safely and effectively by minimally invasive surgery. The laparoscopic approach has been a conventional option for this kind of tumor located near or at the esophagogastric (EG) junction. The aims of this study were to evaluate the surgical outcome of thoracoscopic resection of leiomyoma at the EG junction, and discuss factors affecting the incidence of postoperative gastroesophageal reflux. Fourteen patients who underwent thoracoscopic resection of esophageal leiomyoma located near or at the EG junction (<4 cm above the esophageal hiatus) from January 2002 to August 2007 were reviewed retrospectively. Tumor characteristics, surgical methods, and postoperative outcomes were evaluated. A left approach of video-assisted thoracoscopy was used in 13 patients; a right approach was used for the other patient, whose multiple tumors were located in the EG junction and mid-esophagus. Postoperative recovery was uneventful in all patients, with no mucosa leakage or other significant complications. Mean tumor size was 3.2 cm (1.2,6.0 cm). Of the 14 patients, two had serpiginous leiomyoma, two had multiple tumors, and the others had solitary tumors. Mean postoperative stay in hospital was 7 days (4,11 days). Postoperative dysphagia was not reported, although gastroesophageal reflux was noted in one patient. Thoracoscopic resection of esophageal leiomyomas near or at the EG junction is feasible, with a low prevalence of postoperative gastroesophageal reflux. [source] Total esophagogastric dissociation in adult neurologically impaired patients with severe gastroesophageal reflux: an alternative approachDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 8 2008E. J. Hazebroek SUMMARY Patients with neuromuscular impairment, such as cerebral palsy or myotonic dystrophy, often suffer from oropharyngeal neuromuscular incoordination and severe gastresophageal reflux (GER). In 1997, Bianchi proposed total esophagogastric dissociation (TEGD) as an alternative to fundoplication and gastrostomy to eliminate totally the risk of recurrence of GER in neurologically impaired children. Little information exists about the best management for adult patients with severe neurological impairment in whom recurrent GER develops after failed fundoplication. We present our experience in three adult patients with neurological impairment in whom TEGD with Roux-en-Y esophagojejunostomy and feeding gastrostomy was performed for permanent treatment of GER. [source] Lower esophageal palisade vessels and the definition of Barrett's esophagusDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 7 2008K. Ogiya SUMMARY., The designated area of the columnar-lined esophagus (CLE) is anatomically defined by the distal limit of the lower esophageal palisade vessels (LEPV) and the term ,Barrett's esophagus' is equally used along with the name CLE in Japan. The aim of this study was to investigate the actual prevalence of CLE based on the Japanese criteria and to evaluate the criteria per se. A total of 42 esophagi consecutively resected at this institute were included. All subjects underwent a surgical resection for squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus. The position of the LEPV, squamocolumnar junction, the prevalence of CLE and intestinal metaplasia were investigated both pre- and postoperatively. Preoperative endoscopy revealed CLE based on the Japanese criteria in half of all patients. In the resected specimens the distal limit of LEPV was lower than the squamocolumnar junction in 95.2%. In other words, almost all cases had CLE (equivalent to Barrett's mucosa in Japanese criteria). However, most of the CLE areas were very short and their average maximum length was only about 5 mm. In addition, no intestinal metaplasia was observed in any of the CLE cases. Almost all individuals might therefore be diagnosed to have CLE or Barrett's mucosa based on precise endoscopic observations in Japan. The CLE located in a small area, e.g. less than 5 mm, defined according to the LEPV criteria without any other factor concerning typical Barrett's esophagus such as signs of gastroesophageal reflux should therefore be excluded from consideration as a high-risk mucosa. [source] Lung transplantation in patients with connective tissue disorders and esophageal dysmotilityDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 7 2008Warren J. Gasper SUMMARY., Lung and esophageal dysfunction are common in patients with connective tissue disease (CTD). Recent reports have suggested a link between pathologic gastroesophageal reflux and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) after lung transplant. Because patients with CTD have a high incidence of esophageal dysmotility and reflux, this group may be at increased risk of allograft dysfunction after lung transplantation. Little is known about antireflux surgery in these patients. Our aims were to describe: (i) the esophageal motility and reflux profile of patients with CTD referred for lung transplantation; and (ii) the safety and outcomes of laparoscopic fundoplication in this group. A retrospective review of 26 patients with CTD referred for lung transplantation between July 2003 and June 2007 at a single center. Esophageal studies included manometry and ambulatory 24-h pH monitoring. Twenty-three patients had esophageal manometry and ambulatory 24-h pH monitoring. Nineteen patients (83%) had pathologic distal reflux and 7 (30%) also had pathologic proximal reflux. Eighteen patients (78%) had impaired or absent peristalsis. Eleven of 26 patients underwent lung transplantation. Ten patients are alive at a median follow-up of 26 months (range 3,45) and one has bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome-1. Six patients had a laparoscopic fundoplication, 1 before transplantation and 5 after. All fundoplication patients are alive at median follow-up of 25 months (range 19,45). In conclusion, esophageal dysmotility and reflux are common in CTD patients referred for lung transplant. For this group, laparoscopic fundoplication is safe in experienced hands. [source] Reflux injury of esophageal mucosa: experimental studies in animal models of esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinomaDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 5 2007Yan Li SUMMARY., Barrett's esophagus (BE), a gastroesophageal reflux associated complication, is defined as the replacement of normal esophageal squamous mucosa by specialized intestinal columnar mucosa with the appearance of goblet cells. The presence of BE is associated with an increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC). Although the exposure of gastroduodenal contents to the esophageal mucosa is considered to be an important risk factor for the development of esophagitis, BE and EAC, the mechanisms of reflux esophageal injury are not fully understood. Animal models are now being used extensively to identify the mechanisms of damage and to devise protective and mitigating strategies. Experimental studies on animal models by mimicking the processing of gastroesophageal reflux injury have bloomed during the past decades, however, there is controversy regarding which experimental model for reflux esophagitis, experimental BE and experimental EAC is best. In this review article we aim to clarify the basic understanding of gastroesophageal reflux injury and its complications of BE and EAC, as well as to present current understanding of the reflux experimental models. The animal models of experimental esophageal injury are summarized with focus on the surgical procedures to guide the investigator in choosing or developing a correct animal model in future studies. In addition, our own experimental studies of the animal models are also briefly discussed. [source] Antireflux stents for palliation of malignant esophagocardial stenosisDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 2 2007K. Schoppmeyer SUMMARY., Placement of self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) for palliation of malignant stenoses at the gastroesophageal junction is often associated with stent migration and reflux symptoms. SEMS with an antireflux mechanism have been developed to overcome the latter problem. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of antireflux Z-stents. Patients with advanced squamous cell or adenocarcinoma of the distal esophagus or cardia suffering from dysphagia received an antireflux Z-stent. Technical success, complications of the procedure, clinical symptoms before and after stent placement, reinterventions and survival were recorded. Follow-up was accomplished by patient interviews and a standardized questionnaire for primary care physicians. Eighteen consecutive patients received an antireflux Z-stent. Seventeen of 18 stents were placed technically successful in a single endoscopic procedure. Mean dysphagia score improved from 2.2 to 0.6. Four patients (22%) had permanent reflux symptoms, an additional nine (50%) were taking proton pump inhibitors on a regular basis. In 10 patients, a re-intervention was necessary mainly due to dislocation of the stent. To ensure adequate nutrition three and two patients received a percutaneous gastrostomy and a jejunostomy, respectively. Median survival from stent insertion was 54 days (range, 3,201). Although placement of an antireflux Z-stent is technically feasible, its application is hampered by frequent stent migration and insufficient prevention of gastroesophageal reflux. Further technical improvements of stents or alternative methods like brachytherapy are required for satisfactory palliation of malignant gastroesophageal stenosis. [source] The lower esophageal sphincter strength in patients with gastroesophageal reflux before and after laparoscopic Nissen fundoplicationDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 1 2007J. H. Schneider SUMMARY., Lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LESP) and sphincter strength (LESS) were measured before and after short and floppy laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LNF) in 38 patients with severe gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD). These patients were compared with a control group of 23 healthy volunteers. GERD was assessed by stationary manometry, 24-h pH recordings and endoscopy. LESS was verified by motorized pull-back of an air-filled balloon catheter from the stomach into the esophagus. The catheter assembly was well tolerated by all study participants. LESP increased significantly after operation from 8 mmHg to 14 mmHg (75% of normal values; P < 0.0001), but compared to the control group, LESP (22 mmHg) decreased significantly (P < 0.002). In the control group and in patients with GERD, LESP and LESS showed excellent correlation (r = 0.97, r = 0.94, respectively). After LNF, LESS increased significantly from 0.6 to 1.6 N (P < 0.0001), about 166%. We conclude that the measurement of LESS is able to explain the discrepancy between satisfactory NF operation and the distinct increase of postoperative LESP. The evaluation of LESS is a helpful tool in assessing functional understanding of laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication with a short and floppy wrap. [source] Does gastroesophageal reflux contribute to the development of chronic sinusitis?DISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 6 2006A review of the evidence SUMMARY., Although recent studies suggest that gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may contribute to a variety of ear, nose and throat and pulmonary diseases, the cause-and-effect relationship for the vast majority remains far from proven. In this article, the evidence supporting a possible causal association between GERD and chronic sinusitis has been reviewed. The evidence would suggest that: (i) a higher prevalence of GERD and a different esophagopharyngeal distribution of the gastric refluxate occurs in patients with chronic sinusitis unresponsive to conventional medical and surgical therapy compared to the general population; (ii) a biologically plausible pathogenetic mechanism exists whereby GERD may result in chronic sinusitis; and (iii) clinical manifestations of chronic sinusitis respond variably to antireflux therapy. While these findings suggest that GERD may contribute to the pathogenesis of chronic sinusitis in some patients, it is apparent that the quality of the evidence supporting each of these three lines of evidence is low and therefore does not conclusively establish a cause-and-effect relationship. A number of unresolved issues regarding prevalence, pathophysiological mechanism, diagnosis and treatment exist that deserve further investigation in order to solidify the relationship between GERD and chronic sinusitis. In conclusion, given the possible relationship between GERD and chronic sinusitis, until more convincing data are available, it may be prudent to investigate for GERD as a potential cofactor or initiating factor in patients with chronic sinusitis when no other etiology exists, or in those whose symptoms are unresponsive to conventional therapies. [source] Gastroesophageal reflux: prevalence of psychopathological disorders and quality of life implicationsDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 5 2006Á. Díaz de Liaño SUMMARY., There is evidence in the literature that psychosocial aspects affect the symptoms and results of surgery for gastroesophageal reflux. The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of psychopathological disorders measured using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28) in a sample of patients with gastroesophageal reflux, and to assess the influence of such disorders on their quality of life. A prospective study was conducted in 74 consecutive patients before gastroesophageal reflux surgery; patients answered the GHQ-28, the health questionnaire SF-36, and the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index (GIQLI). The convergent validity of the GHQ-28 questionnaire as compared to the other two questionnaires and preoperative quality of life was tested. A pathological result of the GHQ-28 questionnaire was found in 38.3% of patients. A correlation was seen between the results of the GHQ-28 questionnaire and all categories of the SF-36 and GIQLI questionnaires. Patients with pathological results in the GHQ-28 questionnaire had poorer results in all dimensions of the SF-36 and GIQLI quality of life questionnaires as compared to patients with a normal result in the GHQ-28 questionnaire. In conclusion, 38.3% of patients with gastroesophageal reflux showed psychopathological disorders when administered the GHQ-28 questionnaire. These patients also had poorer results in quality of life studies. [source] Laryngopharyngeal reflux in patients with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux diseaseDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 5 2006P. J. Byrne SUMMARY., Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) has been extensively studied in patients with laryngeal signs and symptoms, gastroesophageal reflux being identified in approximately 50%. Few studies have investigated the incidence and significance of LPR in GERD patients. Two-hundred and seventy-six consecutive patients referred with symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux had dual probe 24 h pH, esophageal manometry, GERD and ENT questionnaires. LPR was defined as at least three pharyngeal reflux events less than pH 5.0 with corresponding esophageal reflux, but excluding meal periods. Fourty-two percent of patients were positive for LPR on 24 h pH monitoring and 91.3% corresponded with an abnormal esophageal acid score. Distal esophageal acid exposure was significantly greater (P < 0.001) in patients with LPR but symptoms of GERD and regurgitation scores showed no significant differences between patients with positive and negative LPR on 24 h pH. There was no significant difference between the incidence of LPR in patients with or without laryngeal symptoms. There is a high incidence of LPR in patients with GERD but its significance for laryngeal symptoms is tenuous. Fixed distance dual probe pH monitoring allows documentation of conventional esophageal reflux and LPR. [source] Distal esophagitis in patients with mustard-gas induced chronic coughDISEASES OF THE ESOPHAGUS, Issue 4 2006M. Ghanei SUMMARY., Although confounded by some factors such as medications or surgical complications, the relationship between esophageal pathology and pulmonary disorders has been the subject of many studies. The present study sought to investigate the said relationship in patients inflicted by respiratory disorders induced by mustard gas (MG). A case group of patients complaining of respiratory complications and chronic coughs following MG exposure, and a control group of patients with chronic coughs but without a history of MG exposure were studied. All the case and control subjects had symptoms of gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Chest high resolution tomography (HRCT) was performed to evaluate the existence of pulmonary disorders. Endoscopy and histological studies were carried out to determine the severity of esophagitis in both groups presenting with gastroesophageal reflux. Ninety male patients, who had met our criteria, along with 40 male control cases underwent the diagnostic procedures. The frequency of endoscopic esophagitis findings in the chemically exposed group was significantly higher than that in the control group (70.0%vs. 42.5%). A pathological evaluation revealed that the frequency of esophagitis in the cases was more than that in the controls (32.3%vs. 14.2%). Chest HRCT evaluation demonstrated that half the case group had more than 25% air trapping in expiratory films, mostly compatible with bronchiolitis obliterans (BO). In addition, they were suffering from asthma, chronic bronchitis and bronchiectasis. Bronchiolitis obliterans, along with other lung disorders, can be considered as contributors in the pathogenesis of esophagitis in MG exposed patients. [source] Helicobacter pylori Infection and Gastroesophageal Reflux in a Population-Based Study (The HUNT Study)HELICOBACTER, Issue 1 2007Helena Nordenstedt Abstract Background and Aim:, It has been suggested that Helicobacter pylori infection may prevent gastroesophageal reflux, possibly through gastric atrophy. Since, however, previous results are contradictory and no population-based studies are available, the relationship between H. pylori and reflux remains uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate this relationship in a population-based, nested, case-control study. Methods:, From a cohort of 65,363 individuals, representing 71.2% of the adult population in the Norwegian county of Nord-Trondelag, we randomly selected 472 persons with recurrent reflux symptoms (cases) and 472 without such symptoms (controls). Occurrence of H. pylori and its virulence factor cagA was determined serologically, using an immunoblot assay. Gastric atrophy was assessed through serum levels of pepsinogen I. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusted for potential confounding factors, represented relative risks. Results:,H. pylori infection was not associated with a decreased risk of reflux symptoms (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8,1.6), irrespective of positive cagA status (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.8,1.5). Gastric atrophy reduced the risk of reflux symptoms (OR 0.2, 95% CI 0.0,0.6). Infection with H. pylori entailed a ninefold increase in the risk of gastric atrophy compared to non-infection (OR 8.9, 95% CI 2.0,39.9). Conclusions:,H. pylori infection, irrespective of cagA status, did not affect the occurrence of reflux symptoms in this population-based setting. Infected individuals are at increased risk of gastric atrophy, which in turn reduces reflux symptoms, but due to the low frequency of gastric atrophy among infected individuals overall, there was no association with reflux symptoms on a population level. [source] Correlation of color Doppler sonographic findings with pH measurements in gastroesophageal reflux in childrenJOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND, Issue 4 2001Hye Suk Jang MD Abstract Purpose We conducted a prospective study of color Doppler sonography in children with suspected gastroesophageal reflux (GER). The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of color Doppler sonography with that of continuous 24-hour pH monitoring of the esophagus in diagnosing GER and to determine how to interpret the reflux episodes detected on color Doppler sonography in children at high risk for reflux. Methods Color Doppler sonography and 24-hour esophageal pH monitoring were performed in 54 children ranging in age from 2 months to 10 years (mean, 3 years). The stomach of each patient was filled for adequate gastric distention just before the color Doppler sonographic examination. We counted the number of reflux episodes over a period of 15 minutes. One day after the sonographic examination, the reflux was evaluated with esophageal pH monitoring, and the resultant reflux index (ReI) was obtained. The ReI was considered to be pathologic when it was equal to or greater than 11.99%. The number of refluxes on color Doppler sonography and the ReI were correlated for each patient. Results The 2 tests showed an 81.5% agreement in the detection of GER. When pH monitoring was taken as the reference test, color Doppler sonography had a high sensitivity (95.5%) for diagnosing GER but a very low specificity (11.0%), with a positive predictive value of 84.3% and a negative predictive value of 33.3%. There was no statistically significant correlation between the frequencies of GER detected on color Doppler sonography and the ReIs on pH monitoring (p = 0.1103). There was no correlation between the reflux grades on sonography and the ReI grades on pH monitoring (p = 0.422). Conclusions Color Doppler sonography is highly sensitive and easier to use than pH monitoring. Although there are no definite criteria for evaluating the severity of GER on color Doppler imaging, this modality may be useful in screening children for GER. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 29:212,217, 2001. [source] Epidemiological study of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease in China: Beijing and ShanghaiJOURNAL OF DIGESTIVE DISEASES, Issue 1 2000Pan Guozong OBJECTIVE: To explore the 1-year point prevalences (July,September 1996) of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux (GER), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and reflux esophagitis (RE) in the adult population of two Chinese city-regions (Beijing and Shanghai) and to identify the conditions that predispose patients to GERD. METHODS: Phase I: 5000 residents of the two regions aged between 18 and 70 years were studied via a questionnaire. The study was carried out by cluster sampling from city, suburban and rural areas by using simple random sampling. Symptom scores (Sc) of the intensity and frequency of heartburn, acid reflux and regurgitation within 1 year of the time of study were taken as indices of acid reflux (highest score, Sc = 18) and Sc , 6 indicated the presence of symptomatic GER. Phase II: a small number of patients who were identified as having symptomatic GER in the survey were enrolled in a case, control study using gastroscopy and 24-h pH monitoring to obtain correct diagnostic rates of GERD and RE. Estimates of the prevalence of GERD and RE were then adjusted according to the rates of correct diagnosis. RESULTS: A total of 4992 subjects completed the survey, 2.5% had heartburn once daily, 8.97% had symptomatic GER (Sc , 6) and the male to female ratio was 1:1.11. Point prevalences for the year for GERD and RE were 5.77 and 1.92%, respectively. Stratified analysis indicated that the prevalence of symptomatic GER in Beijing (10.19%) was higher than that in Shanghai (7.76%) and there was also a higher prevalence of GER in males, manual laborers, people from rural areas and people older than 40 years of age in Beijing as compared with Shanghai. Stepwise logistic analysis indicated that GER had a close relationship with dental, pharyngolaryngeal disorders and respiratory diseases. The conditions that predispose patients to GERD are (OR, odds ratio): age > 40 (OR = 1.01), eating greasy/oily food (OR = 6.56), overeating (OR = 1.99), tiredness (OR = 2.35), emotional stress (OR = 2.22), pregnancy (OR = 6.80) and constipation (OR = 1.65). CONCLUSIONS: Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common disease in the adult Chinese population and it is more common in Beijing than in Shanghai. [source] Endoscopic grading of gastroesophageal flap valve and atrophic gastritis is helpful to predict gastroesophageal refluxJOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 2 2008Gwang Ha Kim Abstract Background and Aim:, The endoscopic grading of the gastroesophageal flap valve (GEFV) has been suggested to be a good predictor of reflux status. Atrophic gastritis is inversely associated with reflux esophagitis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between GEFV, atrophic gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux. Methods:, A total of 608 patients (252 men and 356 women; mean age 51.1 years) who underwent endoscopy, esophageal manometry and ambulatory 24-h pH monitoring were included. GEFV was graded I through IV using Hill's classification: the GEFV was largely classified into two groups: the normal GEFV group (grades I and II) and the abnormal GEFV group (grades III and IV). Atrophic gastritis was classified into two groups by endoscopic atrophic border: closed-type (C-type) and open-type (O-type). Findings of endoscopy, esophageal manometry and ambulatory pH monitoring were compared among the groups. Results:, The incidence of reflux esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease was associated with an abnormal GEFV grade and was inversely associated with open-type atrophic gastritis. The patients with a coexisting abnormal GEFV and closed-type atrophic gastritis showed a significantly higher incidence of reflux esophagitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease than the patients with a coexisting normal GEFV and open-type atrophic gastritis (OR, 20.6 [95% CI, 6.2,68.4], 11.4 [95% CI, 6.3,20.7], respectively). Conclusions:, Endoscopic grading of GEFV and atrophic gastritis is simple and provides useful information on the status of gastroesophageal reflux. [source] Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cavaJOURNAL OF MEDICAL IMAGING AND RADIATION ONCOLOGY, Issue 4 2006A Bonura Summary Leiomyosarcoma of the inferior vena cava is a rare primary tumour. We present a case report of a 67-year-old man with a long history of abdominal pain and gastroesophageal reflux, who was found to have a large retroperitoneal mass confirmed to be a leiomyosarcoma. The clinical and imaging features are outlined, and in addition the treatment and prognosis. [source] Effect of formula thickened with locust bean gum on gastric emptying in infantsJOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 12 2006Reiko Miyazawa Aim: We investigated the effects of milk-based formulas thickened with two different concentrations of locust bean gum on gastric emptying in infants with recurrent regurgitation episodes. Methods: Thirty-nine infants with three or more episodes of regurgitation per day but no complications who were fed mainly with infant formula were studied. We first compared gastric emptying in infants fed with formulas thickened with two different concentrations of locust bean gum (HL-350, 0.35 g/100 mL; HL-450, 0.45 g/100 mL) or a regular formula (HL-00). To evaluate gastric emptying, we measured antral cross-sectional areas ultrasonographically at various time points after feeding. Next, to investigate the clinical effect of thickened formulas on regurgitation episodes, 27 infants with episodes were assigned randomly to receive HL-350 and HL-00 or HL-450 and HL-00 for 1 week each. Results: Antral cross-sectional areas at 60, 90, 120 and 150 min with HL-450, and at 60 min with HL-350, were greater than with HL-00. The median gastric emptying rate at 120 min with HL-450 (52.8%) was lower than with HL-00 (97.9%; P = 0.0019), while HL-350 (80.3%) and HL-00 did not differ significantly. The mean number of regurgitation episodes was significantly smaller when infants were fed with either HL-350 or HL-450 than with HL-00. Conclusions: HL-450, a thickened formula with typical commercially available concentrations of locust bean gum, slowed gastric emptying in infants with gastroesophageal reflux. [source] Food allergy and asthma morbidity in childrenPEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY, Issue 6 2007Alyson B. Simpson MD Abstract Background Coexisting food allergy and asthma is a significant problem in the pediatric population. Studies have looked at the association between food sensitization and asthma severity. It is unknown whether specific food allergies are associated with increased asthma morbidity. Objective We studied the independent effect that allergy to egg, milk, fish, and peanut has on the number of hospitalizations and courses of systemic steroids in children with asthma. Methods We performed a medical record review to evaluate the effect food allergy to egg, fish, peanut, and milk has on asthma morbidity. We reviewed the records of 201 children aged 3 months to 14 years with the diagnosis of asthma (ICD-9 codes 493.90, 493.91, and 493.92), of which 88 had coexistent food allergy. All children in the food allergy group had food-specific IgE concentrations greater than the 95% positive predictive value. We compared the rate of hospitalizations and use of systemic steroids between children with asthma and food allergies and those without coexisting food allergy using direct-entry, multiple regression analysis. Patients were adjusted for the severity of their asthma based on symptoms documented at their first visit to the allergist according to the National Asthma Education and Prevention Program guidelines and presence of environmental allergy, eczema, smoke exposure, and gastroesophageal reflux. Results Peanut and milk allergies were both associated with increased number of hospitalizations (P,=,0.009, 0.016), and milk allergy was associated with increased use of systemic steroids (P,=,0.001). Conclusion Peanut and milk allergies were associated with increased hospitalization and steroid use and may serve as early markers for increased asthma morbidity. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2007; 42:489,495. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Mechanical ventilation in children with severe asthmaPEDIATRIC PULMONOLOGY, Issue 6 2001DMSc, Kristiina Malmström MD Abstract Hospital admissions for childhood asthma have increased during the past few decades. The aim of this study was to describe the need for mechanical ventilation for severe asthma exacerbation in children in Finland from 1976 to 1995. We reviewed medical records and collected data retrospectively from all 5 university hospitals in Finland, thus covering the entire population of about 5 million. The endpoints selected were the number of admissions and readmissions leading to mechanical ventilation, duration of stay in the hospital, and mortality. Moreover, asthma medications prescribed prior to admission and administered in the intensive care unit (ICU), as well as the etiology of the exacerbation associated with mechanical ventilation were examined. Mechanical ventilation was required in 66 ICU admissions (59 patients). This constituted approximately 10% of all 632 admissions for acute asthma to an ICU. The number of admissions decreased from 1976 to 1995: 41 admissions between 1976 and 1985 vs. 25 admissions during the next 10-year period. The mean age at admission to the ICU was 3.6 years, and 46% of the patients were boys. Prior to the index admission, 70% of the patients had used asthma medication such as oral bronchodilator (50%), inhaled bronchodilator (20%), theophylline (38%), inhaled glucocorticoid (18%), oral glucocorticoid (5%), and cromoglycate (7%). Respiratory infection was by far the most common cause of all the exacerbations (61%), followed by food allergy (8%) and gastroesophageal reflux (3%). In 28% of cases the cause of the severe asthma exacerbation could not be identified. In the mechanically ventilated patients readmissions occurred 38 times between 1976 and 1985 vs. 5 times between 1986 and 1995. Five of the patients who received mechanical ventilation died, and in 3 of these patients asthma was the event causing death. In conclusion, there has been decrease in the number of first and repeat ICU admission for asthma requiring mechanical ventilation between 1970 and 1995. This trend occurred despite a simultaneous 5% yearly increase in hospital admissions for childhood asthma during these 2 decades. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 31:405,411. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Evaluation of allergic sensitization and gastroesophageal reflux disease in children with recurrent croupPEDIATRICS INTERNATIONAL, Issue 5 2009Zafer Arslan Abstract Background:, Croup, which is seen commonly in childhood, is a disorder that can be recurrent and progress to bronchial asthma. In the present study the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and atopy and the response to therapy were investigated in children with recurrent croup. Methods:, Between October 2003 and June 2004, 57 patients with acute stridor were admitted to the emergency room. The patients who had at least three croup episodes and patients with first croup episode were compared. Results:, Thirty-two children had recurrent croup history, GER was found in of 62.5%, and atopy in 17.2%. Atopy was not found in any children with first croup episode. The difference was significant. In addition it was found that atopic dermatitis, previous history of wheezing and established atopy increased the risk of croup recurrence. Alone or combined inhaled corticosteroids and GER therapy were administered, and 77.7% of the patients responded very well. Conclusion:, GER and atopy should be investigated in patients with recurrent spasmodic croup. Recurrent croup is a non-specific manifestation of atopy. Patients with atopy should be followed closely for developing bronchial asthma. [source] Asthma and gastroesophageal reflux in a girl with urticaria pigmentosaPEDIATRICS INTERNATIONAL, Issue 5 2000zmaníc No abstract is available for this article. [source] Management of children with holoprosencephaly,AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL GENETICS, Issue 1 2010Eric B. Levey Abstract Holoprosencephaly (HPE) is the most common malformation of the embryonic forebrain in humans. Although HPE occurs along a continuous spectrum, it has been categorized into four types from most severe to least severe: alobar, semilobar, lobar, and middle interhemispheric (MIH) variant. Facial malformations are often associated with HPE and usually correlate with the severity of brain malformation. With the most severely affected newborns, there is a high mortality rate in the first month of life, however, with milder forms of HPE, the majority survive beyond infancy. The Carter Centers for Brain Research in Holoprosencephaly and Related Malformations have enrolled 182 living children in a prospective research study. Based on previously published reports using this database, reports from other investigators, as well as our experience and personal observations, the range of developmental, neurological, and medical problems found in children with HPE is described in this article. Virtually all children with HPE have some developmental disability and the severity correlates with the severity of the brain malformation on neuroimaging. Common medical problems include hydrocephalus, seizures, motor impairment, oromotor dysfunction with risk of poor nutrition and aspiration, chronic lung disease, gastroesophageal reflux, constipation, hypothalamic dysfunction with disturbed sleep,wake cycles and temperature dysregulation, as well as endocrine dysfunction. Diabetes insipidus in particular is found in about 70% of children with classic HPE. Recommendations for management of these problems are given based on experiences of the authors and familiarity with the literature. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] |