Laryngopharyngeal reflux management in clinical practice

Abstract

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is an inflammatory reaction of the mucosa of the pharynx, larynx, and other associated upper respiratory organs, caused by a reflux of stomach contents outside the esophagus. LPR is considered a relatively new clinical entity with a vast number of clinical manifestations that are sometimes treated empirically and without a correct diagnosis. Alginate is a reasonable therapeutic option as a first-line or add-on option. A survey included 35 Italian otorhinolaryngologists. The survey considered ten practical queries. LPR is a common disease in clinical practice. History and fiber-optic endoscopy constitute the main diagnostic tools. Alginates represent a frequent medication to treat LPR both as first-line and add-on. The mean effectiveness rate is 44% for first-line choice and 76% for the add-on. In conclusion, the current survey provided exciting information about the management of LPR in clinical practice.

Keywords: alginate; laryngopharyngeal reflux; management; otorhinolaryngologist; survey.