Refractory Cases in Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease (LPRD)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which includes otorhinolaryngologic symptoms is called laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD). Recently, there are refractory cases of GERD and LPRD for which only a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) is effective. In Japan, it is reported that most refractory cases of GERD are aged females and negative cases of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).Eight refractory cases of LPRD are reported. The male and female ratio was 1:1. The chief complaint was pharyngeal pain in 3 cases. Reflux esophagitis was found endoscopically in 4 cases and H. pylori was negative in all cases. Kyphorachitis was found in females and surgical treatment was performed in 1 case.Refractory cases of LPRD were similar to those of GERD. In LPRD, refractory cases seen in aged females who respond only to PPI may require other modes of treatment.