Abstract
Objective: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is well documented in children. However, methods of obtaining accurate diagnosis are controversial. As a prelude to establishing normative values in children, we retrospectively reviewed comparison data of 63 consecutive children tested by pH probe and post-cricoid biopsy.
Method: Sixty-three consecutive patients with symptoms of reflux without evidence of sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, or adenoid disease were studied by pH probe (Restech Dx Measurement System, San Diego, California) simultaneous with posterior cricoid biopsy (our previous diagnostic method). All testing was done through outpatient ambulatory surgery under general anesthesia.
Results: Of the 63 total patients (age 6 months-17 years), 37 (60%) were positive for reflux by probe with a negative biopsy. Eleven (17%) tested negative to probe and biospy. Ten (15%) were excluded (pulled probe). Five (8%) were positive by probe and biopsy.
Conclusion: Normative values in children have not been determined in this instrument. We believe it may offer a satisfactory diagnostic tool. These results, and previous studies, suggest that pH probe testing is superior to histologic diagnosis in determining LPR. However, normative values must be determined in children prior to further comparative studies.
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