The prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease and laryngopharyngeal reflux in patients with dysphagia after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Abstract

BackgroundThe prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) in post‐irradiated patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is unknown.Materials and methodsIn a cross‐sectional study, 31 NPC and 12 control patients completed questionnaires for GERD/LPR before esophageal manometry and 24‐h pH monitoring. The DeMeester score and reflux finding score (RFS) were used to define GERD and LPR, respectively. Risk factors were identified.Results51.6% of NPC and 8.3% of control patients, and 77.4% of NPC and 33% of control patients, were GERD‐positive and LPR‐positive, respectively. The GERD/LPR questionnaire failed to identify either condition in patients with NPC. No parameter differences in esophageal manometry or pneumonia incidence were noted between GERD/LPR‐positive and GERD/LPR‐negative patients. Post radiotherapy duration, high BMI, lack of chemotherapy, and dysphagia were positive risk factors for GERD/LPR.ConclusionsA high prevalence of GERD/LPR in patients with post‐irradiated NPC exists, but reflux symptoms are inadequate for diagnosis.