Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease in a series of Sri Lankan patients

Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPR) occurs due to reflux of gastric contents into the larynx, pharynx and upper aerodigestivetractas a result of upper oesophageal sphincter dysfunction. Other aliases commonly used are extraesophageal reflux, reflux laryngitis or posterior laryngitis. LPR contributes up to 50% of laryngeal complaints hence; it is commonly encountered in clinical practice. LPR is present in 4-10% of those with gastro oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) while, about 20-70% with LPR has symptoms of GORD. However, there is paucity of data regarding LPR, its characteristics and associations in a Sri Lankan population. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the demographic characteristics, presenting symptoms, dietary patterns and associations and laryngoscopic findings in the study population. It also explores the relationship between the reflux symptoms index (RSI) and the reflux findings score (RFS) and the effect of treatment on the above parameters.Ceylon Journal of Otolaryngology Vol.4(1) 2015 pp.9-12