The Real Relevance of Nonacid Reflux in Pediatric Patients

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is one of the most common presenting complaints to pediatric gastroenterologists, and a wide variety of symptoms in children are potentially attributable to typical or atypical GER. While reflux diagnosis and treatment paradigms classically have focused on targeting acid, there is a growing recognition of the prevalence and significance of nonacid GER in both children and adults. This review explores the role of nonacid reflux in pediatric patients, including definitions, associations with symptoms, pathophysiologic mechanisms, and treatment implications.