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Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: Signs, Symptoms and 24 Hour Dual Sensor pH Probe Testing
Author(s) -
Fernández Secundino,
Vázquez Francisco,
Ruba David
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1002/lary.21523
Subject(s) - citation , medicine , library science , computer science
Secundino Fernandez Organization: Universidad de Navarra Email: sfgonzalez@unav.es Phone: +34 948255400 ext.(4681) Website: www.unav.es Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) has been extensively studied in patients with diverse laryngeal signs and symptoms. Laryngitis secondary to gastric acid is a prevalent, yet incompletely understood otolaryngological disorder. We examined the correlation between the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) and the Reflux Finding Score (RFS) and the relation with the results in 24 hour dual sensor pH probe testing. This study demonstrates a high correlation between RFS and RSI. Throat cleaning, hoarseness and dysphagia are the most intense symptoms whereas posterior commissure hypertrophy, vocal fold edema and thick endolaryngeal mucus are the most important signs. Dual sensor pH probe testing could not predict the severity of patient’s reflux but is associated with a RSI >14 or a RFS >8. Treatment with PPI during at least six months improved dramatically RSI. The results of this study support empiric treatment with PPI in patients with an abnormal RSI and RFS. Empiric pharmacologic therapy is warranted on the basis of a diagnosis of LPR based on an accurate RFS and RSI. Laryngoscopy and pharyngeal pH monitoring should be considered complementary studies in establishing the diagnosis of laryngeal injury induced by gastroesophageal reflux. LARYNGOPHARYNGEAL REFLUX: Signs, Symptoms and 24 Hour Dual Sensor pH Probe Testing