Reflux gastro-œsophagien et affections respiratoires chez l'enfant

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER)-associated respiratory disorders are frequent and varied: chronic cough, asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, laryngitis, sinusitis, otitis, stridor. A cause/ effect relationship between GER and respiratory disorders has never been demonstrated and identifying the exact role of GER in respiratory pathology remains difficult. The "gold standard" for the diagnosis is the 24-hour continuous esophageal pH monitoring, but clinical data and pulmonary check-up should be considered for the elimination of other respiratory diseases. Following GER diagnosis, medical therapy including prokinetic and antisecretory agents is recommended since the efficacy of these drugs has been shown; indications for surgery are rare in children.