GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE AND ASTHMA IN THE ADULT

Nonallergic rhinitis in children

Nonallergic rhinitis in children is a medical condition that has not been well defined and the true incidence is unknown. Current treatment recommendations are based on data obtained from adult studies. The mechanisms of pediatric nonallergic rhinitis are also unclear. The concept that laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) events may play a critical role in the pathogenesis of upper airway disease is presently under investigation. Although LPR is being better delineated and appropriate methods of diagnosis and treatment are being studied, substantial evidence links LPR with several disease states including rhinitis, sinus disease, and middle ear disease. Due to the lack of information concerning the etiology of nonallergic rhinitis in children, LPR should be considered in the differential diagnosis of a child with negative skin tests and chronic rhinitis symptoms. The clinician should especially give attention to this diagnosis when a child presents with recurrent co-morbid conditions such as chronic sinusitis or persistent middle ear disease.

The association of gastroesophageal reflux disease with asthma and chronic cough in the adult

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition which is particularly prevalent in patients with asthma and chronic cough. Physiologic changes caused by asthma and chronic cough promote acid reflux. GERD is also considered by many investigators as a factor contributing to airway inflammation. An etiological relationship between GERD and asthma/chronic cough and vice versa has been supported by a large number of experimental and clinical findings and refuted by others. Although further controlled studies are needed to clarify this relationship, GERD and asthma/chronic cough appear to be linked to each other. The association of GERD with asthma and chronic cough involves nerve reflexes, cytokines, inflammatory and neuroendocrine cells and, in some patients, tracheal aspiration of refluxing gastric fluids. GERD may present with typical symptoms but can also be asymptomatic. Sensitive methods for diagnosing GERD are available, which include esophageal pH monitoring, acid provocative tests, modified barium swallow and endoscopy. Consideration of the association of GERD with asthma and chronic cough is of practical value in the management of chronic cough or asthma resistant to treatment. Treatment of GERD in patients with asthma has been consistently shown to improve respiratory symptoms but not necessarily pulmonary function tests. Surgical treatment can be a useful and cost-effective approach in selected patients with asthma and GERD.