Abstract
In recent years, considerable new information has become available on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapy of gastroesophageal reflux. Gastric contents, mucosal resistance, esophageal acid clearance, and gastric emptying are now recognized, along with incompetency of the lower esophageal sphincter, as contributing factors to gastroesophageal reflux disease. The potential tests for reflux are reviewed and the diagnostic accuracy of each is evaluated. A diagnostic approach to the patient with reflux symptoms is outlined that considers the sensitivity and specificity of these various tests as well as their availability to the generalist and gastrointestinal specialist. Finally, an overview of the current therapy for reflux disease summarizes the controlled studies in the medical literature.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
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Review
MeSH terms
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Alginates / therapeutic use
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Antacids / therapeutic use
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Barium Sulfate
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Bethanechol
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Bethanechol Compounds / therapeutic use
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Cimetidine / therapeutic use
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Esophagitis, Peptic / etiology
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Esophagogastric Junction / diagnostic imaging
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Esophagogastric Junction / physiopathology
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Esophagoscopy
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Esophagus / pathology
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Gastroesophageal Reflux* / diagnosis
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Gastroesophageal Reflux* / etiology
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Gastroesophageal Reflux* / therapy
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Glucuronic Acid
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Hernia, Hiatal / diagnosis
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Hexuronic Acids
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Humans
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Hydrochloric Acid
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Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
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Metoclopramide / therapeutic use
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Mucous Membrane / physiopathology
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Pressure
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Radionuclide Imaging
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Stomach / physiopathology
Substances
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Alginates
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Antacids
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Bethanechol Compounds
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Hexuronic Acids
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Bethanechol
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Barium Sulfate
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Cimetidine
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Glucuronic Acid
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Metoclopramide
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Hydrochloric Acid