Pediatric Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

This objective of this review is to present the known data in regards to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) in infants. Articles with relevant definitions, diagnosis and treatment options were evaluated. It is evident that much controversy exists in the diagnosis and treatment of this disease, and there is the question as whether this disease can be called GERD. Current ability to attribute the symptoms infants present with the disease is still difficult to clarify, despite the fact that as many as 60% of infants show symptoms of this disease. The current testing options have proven to be insufficient in concretely diagnosing infants. Treatment for GERD has proven to be controversial as well. The medications for acid suppression are not a guaranteed cure and are being proven to have a lack of efficacy, show adverse effects and other negative aspects. The invasive options are not always ideal either. Altering changes in lifestyle helps, but is usually not the cause or cure when it comes to infants. Research is being done to come up with a test that is a definitive diagnosis, as well as a treatment option that is completely effective. Research has shown that despite the fact that acid suppression therapy is the most common answer by physicians today, it does not effectively work to eliminate all the symptoms. This does suggest that either GERD is not the condition, or that modern therapies and treatments for reflux are not effective. Further research is needed on the subject