References

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Issing WJ, Karkos PD. Atypical manifestations of gastro-oesophageal reflux. J R Soc Med. 2003;96:477-80.

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) refers to the symptoms and complications of abnormal passage of gastric contents into the oesophagus. Symptoms of GORD commonly include heartburn and acid regurgitation. Apart from this typical presentation of GORD, extra-oesophageal reflux disease often results in oral, pharyngeal, laryngeal and pulmonary disorders. Laryngopharyngeal reflux is the movement of gastric contents beyond the oesophagus up to the laryngeal and pharyngeal area. As well as pepsin and acid, gastric contents can include bile acids and pancreatic enzymes, all of which can injure tissues not adapted to them. Laryngopharyngeal reflux is known to contribute to posterior laryngitis, laryngeal contact ulcerations, laryngeal and pharyngeal cancer, subglottic stenosis and laryngospasm, dysphonias, pharyngitis, asthma, pneumonia, nocturnal choking and dental diseases.

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