Gastroesophageal reflux disease in infants. Myths and misconceptions, where is the evidence?

Authors

• Ahmed A. Sarkhy, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and King Khalid University Hospital, King Saud University, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Tel. +966 (1) 4670807. Fax. +966 (1) 4679463. E-mail: asarkhy{at}hotmail.com/aalsarkhy{at}ksu.edu.sa

Abstract

Infantile gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a common self-limited, physiological phenomenon. Infantile gastroesophageal reflux becomes pathological (gastroesophageal reflux disease [GERD]) when symptoms become more severe or are associated with complications such as failure to thrive or hematemesis. Though it is a very common condition, there are several misconceptions and myths on GER/GERD diagnosis and management. Inappropriate investigations are frequently requested and unnecessary medications are increasingly prescribed, particularly in infants with symptoms attributed to possible GER/GERD. Several therapeutic interventions are used widely in GERD management, although some evidence is either insufficient or controversial.

Article Type

Review

First Page

593

Last Page

600

Recommended Citation

Sarkhy, Ahmed A. (2012) "Gastroesophageal reflux disease in infants. Myths and misconceptions, where is the evidence?," Saudi Medical Journal: Vol. 33: Iss. 6, Article 1.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15537/1658-3175.5558