Reflux laryngitis: Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is felt to be associated with a variety of laryngeal conditions and symptoms of which "reflux laryngitis" is perhaps t he most common. The most likely mechanism for laryngeal injury and symptoms is secondary to direct acid and pepsin contact, although studies concernin g the cause and effect between gastroesophageal reflux disease-and laryngea l disorders are conflicting. Likewise, the most effective method to diagnos e such patients is unclear. Empiric treatment of patients with reflux laryn gitis has been shown to be effective though none of the studies are control led. (C) 1999 by Am. Cell. of Gastroenterology.