Publication:

Role of reflux symptom index score in diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux

Background The retrograde flow of gastric contents to the upper aero digestive tract is known as laryngo pharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD). Diet and lifestyle play a huge role in the pathophysiology of LPR.

Methods A hospital based cross sectional study in the Department of ENT, KMCT, Kozhikode. 291 Patients were selected from those who presented to the OPD with throat symptoms who scored >10 in a questionnaire (Reflux symptom Index) that was provided and were advised to undergo video laryngoscopy and their reflux finding score (RSI)was calculated. LPRD prevalence, RSI/Reflux Findings Score (RFS) correlations, and clinical/ laryngoscopic (video laryngoscopy) associations were analyzed.

Results LPRD prevalence was 68.7%, higher in females (60.1%) and the 41-50 age group (31.3%). Increased spicy food/caffeine intake and shorter dinner-bedtime intervals were significantly associated. Heartburn/indigestion was the most common symptom, with RSI mean 12.94±2.26. Erythema/hyperaemia was the most frequent laryngeal finding, with RFS mean 8.47±2.40. RSI and RFS scores significantly correlated.

Conclusions This study demonstrates a high LPRD prevalence among patients with throat symptoms, particularly in females aged 41-50 and influenced by dietary/lifestyle factors. RSI effectively identified LPRD in this resource-constrained setting, highlighting its diagnostic value. These findings provide valuable insights for managing and further investigating LPRD.