Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

Abstract

In the pediatric population, reflux of gastric contents into and above the esophagus impacts different age groups in a variety of ways. It has been estimated that up to 10% of patient visits to an otolaryngologist are for reflux-related issues (Johnston et al. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1381(1):5-13; 2016). Vague symptoms have led to difficulty in research among the involved specialties including gastroenterology, otolaryngology, and speech pathology. This chapter aims to clarify definitions of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and its contribution to other aerodigestive pathologies from the perspective of both the otolaryngologist and speech pathologist.