Laryngopharyngeal Reflux: A Laryngologist's Perspective

Abstract

Much controversy continues to exist regarding almost every facet of layrngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), including the method of its clinical evaluation, the interpretation of the available data, and its ultimate diagnosis and treatment. In this article, the author reviews some of the controversies associated with the diagnosis and management of LPR from the perspective of a laryngologist. The author conducted a literature review to identify recent key articles regarding the diagnosis and treatment of LPR. Special attention was taken to identify clinical practice guidelines and review articles that summarize the scientific validity of the literature on LPR. The results show that evidence in the current literature is inconsistent, although most clinicians agree that extraesophageal reflux is associated with manifestations of symptoms in the larynx and pharynx. Questions remain about the true prevalence of LPR and its causation.