[Novel aspects in the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease].
In addition to lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxations and decreased LES tone, increased intra-abdominal pressure can also play role in the pathogenesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD),.


OBJECTIVE
To analyze the correlation between occupation-related increased intra-abdominal pressure or straining (experienced for years) and the prevalence of GERD symptoms.


METHODS
Reflux symptoms were analyzed through a questionnaire among professional singers, wind players and glassblowers in comparison with controls.


RESULTS
Heartburn, regurgitation and hoarseness were significantly more frequent among professional singers than in controls (P<0.001). Among wind players heartburn (P<0.05) and regurgitation (P<0.01), among glassblowers regurgitation (P<0.01) were significantly more frequent in comparison with control subjects. Reflux symptoms correlated significantly with the duration of professional activity (P<0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
Results suggest that reflux symptoms are more frequent among subjects with occupation-related increased intra-abdominal pressure. GERD seems to be a work-related disease in this aspect.
Semmelweis Egyetem, Altalános Orvostudományi Kar és MTA Molekuláris Medicina Kutatócsoport II. Belgyógyászati Klinika 1088 Budapest. pregunistvan@yahoo.com
István
I
Pregun
László
L
Herszényi
Tamás
T
Bakucz
János
J
Banai
László
L
Molnár
István
I
Altorjay
Péter
P
Orosz
László
L
Csernay
Zsolt
Z
Tulassay
D000328:Adult; D049630:Esophageal Sphincter, Lower / Q000503:physiopathology*; D005260:Female; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015999:Multivariate Analysis; D009146:Music; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology; D011312:Pressure; D013270:Stomach / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires