[Prognostic aspects of esophageal ph-metry in infants with reflux]

Pediatr Med Chir. 1994 Jan-Feb;16(1):49-51.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux (g.e.r.) is a very common event in children particularly in infants. Twenty-four-hour continuous esophageal pH monitoring has become the preferred test to quantify acid gastroesophageal reflux. It has a large sensitivity and specificity, but it does not allow a good prediction of esophagitis. The Authors show a computerized method to determine the area under the curve (a.u.c.) and the percentage of time at different pH levels. These parameters have shown the same sensitivity and specificity as DeMeester-Boix-Ochoa score. They directly relate the time of exposure and pH level in every reflux under pH 4 and so they suggest a better prognostic index. To improve this approach to g.e.r. we will need other studies with this method.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Esophagus / physiology*
  • Female
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Monitoring, Physiologic*
  • Prognosis