The Role of Empirical Treatment with Proton Pump Inhibitor as a Diagnostic Tool in Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

The objectives of the study were to determine clinical manifestations in patients presenting with LPR and to evaluate the role of empirical treatment with PPI as a diagnostic tool in LPR. 100 patients were divided into experimental group (RSI ≥ 13 and RFS  ≥ 7) and control group (RSI <  13 and RFS <  7). Omeprazole trial was given to experimental group and assessed for RSI and RFS at 04 and 08 weeks. Statistical analysis was done within the group and between the groups. (1) The response rate to Omeprazole at 04 and 08 weeks interval (RSI<13 and/or RFS<7) was 60% and 76% respectively. (2) The response to Omeprazole given to the experimental group with RSI ≥13 and RFS≥7 was significant at 04 weeks and 08 weeks duration (P<0.0001). RSI and RFS are good clinical tools to assess and diagnose patients with Laryngopharyngeal reflux. Based on the clinical diagnosis an empirical trial of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) can be given to patients for duration of 02  months resulting in a good response.
Source: Indian Journal of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery - Category: ENT & OMF Source Type: research