Reflux gastro-œsophagien de l'enfant

The clinical manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in infancy and childhood include vomiting, dysphagia, abdominal pain and substernal pain, œsophagitis and respiratory disorders. Diagnostic approaches consist of history and physical examination, oesophageal pH monitoring, endoscopy, biopsy and sometimes an empiric medical therapy. Treatment options in infancy include a prone position, diet change with milk thickening agents and if necessary with a new formula without cow milk proteins. Lifestyle changes in children and adolescents are recommended. In case of oesophagitis, acid suppressor therapy with proton pump inhibitors is used. Prokinetic therapy reduces the frequency of symptoms. Surgical therapy (fundoplication) generally results in favourable outcomes when prolonged medical therapy is not successful.