Gastroesophageal reflux and gastric hyperacidity in cystic fibrosis patients

Abstract

Objective - Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is increased in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). The role of gastric hyperacidity, which is common in CF patients with GER is not well characterized.

Patients and Methods - Twenty-five CF children underwent 24 hour oesophageal pH monitoring. From each pH monitoring diurnal and nocturnal intervals were selected. In 10 patients 24-hour simultaneous oesophageal and gastric pH monitoring were performed.

Results - Thirteen of the 25 patients showed pathological GER. There were significantly more refluxes during diurnal pH monitoring. Nocturnal pH monitoring yielded significantly more refluxes longer than 5 minutes, longer episodes of refluxes and lower mean gastric and oesophageal pH.

Conclusion - The method of choice for the diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux in CF patients should be simultaneous oesophageal and gastric 24-hour monitoring including alert and sleep periods. Gastric acidity and reduced lung function facilitates reflux, which in turn might contribute to progression of pulmonary diseases as was seen in our patients.