Characteristics of gastroesophageal reflux in adults with cystic fibrosis.
BACKGROUND
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in adults with cystic fibrosis (CF) is poorly characterized. This study examines the frequency and predictors of GER symptoms and their relationship to lung function in adults with CF.


METHODS
Cross-sectional study of adults at the University of Minnesota CF Clinic using two validated self report surveys: The Mayo GER questionnaire and the GERD Symptom Assessment Scale (GSAS).


RESULTS
Of 274 invited patients, 201 (73%) completed the surveys and 173 performed spirometry at the same visit. Frequent symptoms (at least weekly) were reported by 24% of the patients and an additional 39% experienced occasional symptoms. Heartburn, acid regurgitation and dysphagia were the most common symptoms and 18% reported that GER symptoms worsened their respiratory condition. Females and patients reporting weight loss had more symptoms (mean GSAS symptom score 4.9 vs. 4.0, p=0.025 and 5.3 vs. 4.2, p=0.04) and more severe symptoms (mean GSAS distress score 5.6 vs. 3.8, p=0.005 and 6.8 vs. 4.0, p=0.01) compared to males and those who did not report weight loss. Patients on acid suppression (n=122, 61%) continued to report heartburn (n=80, 66%) and acid regurgitation (n=47, 23%). GER symptoms and severity of symptoms were not predictive of FEV(1) or FVC.


CONCLUSIONS
GER symptoms were present in a majority of patients. Females and patients with weight loss require special attention to their GER symptoms. Many patients on acid suppression continued to be report symptoms.
Sabati
Arash A
AA
Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, 725 Welch Road, Stanford CA 94305, United States.
Kempainen
Robert R
RR
Milla
Carlos E
CE
Ireland
Marjorie
M
Schwarzenberg
Sarah J
SJ
Dunitz
Jordan M
JM
Khan
Khalid M
KM
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000863:Antacids / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000150:complications*; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005541:Forced Expiratory Volume; D005744:Gastric Acid / Q000378:metabolism; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006356:Heartburn / Q000209:etiology; D006801:Humans; D057045:Laryngopharyngeal Reflux / Q000378:metabolism; D008168:Lung / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015995:Prevalence; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013147:Spirometry; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D015431:Weight Loss; D055815:Young Adult
D000863:Antacids