Pediatria pre prax 6/2006

GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX AND REFLUX DISEASE IN CHILDREN

Reflux oesophageal disease is caused by abnormal gastroesophageal reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux is recurrent backward flow of gastric or gastric and duodenal content of stomach to oesophagus. It is essentially physiologic and may or may not cause changes on oesophageal mucosa. It belongs to the group of motility disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. The development of reflux disease depends on the balance between aggressive and protective factors. Gastroesophageal reflux is common in children, especially infants. Mild vomiting may be frequently the only symptom. It resolves in most children with aging. If it persists and further complications occur, it is necessary to make a diagnosis or rule out the diagnosis of possible reflux disease. Diagnostic approach is discussed. The treatment focuses on healing of lesions and prevention of recurrences caused by reflux. The treatment may be conservative, but in some cases even surgical.

Keywords: gastroesophageal reflux, reflux esophagitis, reflux oesophageal disease, lower oesophageal sphincter, duodenogastric reflux, symptomatology, diagnosis, treatment