Globus pharyngeus: radiographic evaluation and 24-hour pH monitoring of the pharynx and esophagus in 22 patients

Abstract

Purpose: The authors correlated the radiographic evaluation and 24-hour pH monitoring of the pharynx and the esophagus in patients with globus pharyngeus.

Materials and methods: Radiographic examination of the pharynx of 22 patients (13 women and nine men, aged 23-73 years [mean, 47 years]) included videofluoroscopy and static radiography. Twenty-four-hour double-probe pH monitoring of the pharynx (abnormal, pH < 4) and esophagus (abnormal, 6% or more total acid exposure) was performed in all patients.

Results: Radiographic results were normal in 17 patients; results were abnormal in five, with four having pharyngeal dysfunction and one showing a persistent cricopharyngeal impression. Zenker diverticulum was not seen. Results at pH monitoring of the pharynx and esophagus were normal in 20 and 18 of the 22 patients, respectively. In four of five patients with abnormal radiographic studies of the pharynx, results of pharyngeal pH monitoring were normal.

Conclusion: Most patients with globus pharyngeus had normal results at pH monitoring and radiographic examination of the pharynx.