GERD SYMPOSIUM AT BLK SUPER SPECIALITY HOSPITAL
Learning Points:
GER is the passage of gastric contents into the esophagus with or without regurgitation and/or vomiting. GER becomes GERD when reflux causes troublesome symptoms. Spectrum of possible GERD symptoms in infants and children varies widely by age – None of the symptoms and signs are specific in children.
Diagnosis: A proper history and examination are the mainstay for the management. pH-metry with MII (Impedance) recording and UGIE with esophageal biopsies are important for diagnosis. In older children a PPI trial can also be used as a diagnostic tool. USG, biomarkers, Barium meal and manometry per se are not required for diagnosis.
Management: In infants non pharmacologic measures like positioning, avoiding overfeeding and thickening of feeds are tried. Ruling out underlying cow milk protein allergy is also important for those who don’t respond. Older children are manged with lifestyle and dietary modifications followed by PPI if needed. Prokinetics have no significant role in the management of Pediatric GERD.
Dr. Deepak Goel
Dr. Deepak Goyal, a Pediatric Gastroenterologist with extensive post-MD experience of more than 15 years that includes super-specialty training in ‘Pediatric Hepatology & Gastroenterology’ (MCI-recognized) at SGPGIMS, Lucknow, has managed various kinds of complicated Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Liver Transplant Cases.
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