GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE: ETIOLOGY, CLINICAL PRESENTATION, CLASSIFICATION, DIAGNOSIS, AND TREATMENT METHODS

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which gastric and/or duodenal contents regularly flow back into the esophagus. This process is accompanied by heartburn, regurgitation, and retrosternal discomfort. Recurrent reflux episodes damage the mucosal lining of the distal esophagus and lead to esophagitis (an inflammation of the esophageal lining), while certain patients develop Barrett’s esophagus (intestinal metaplasia of the esophageal mucosa) [1][5]. In terms of prevalence, GERD ranks first among all gastroenterological disorders. [6,7]. Up to 40% of the adult population is affected. However, the prevalence of the disease varies by the region: GERD is more common in the United States, Italy, New Zealand, and Middle Eastern countries than in East Asian countries (such as China, Japan, and others).[1]. In Russia, GERD is found in approximately 18–46% of adults, and esophagitis is diagnosed in 45–80% of patients with this condition. [2]. The prevalence of reflux esophagitis increases with age, and its complications are more commonly detected in patients over 50 years old. GERD without reflux esophagitis occurs with similar frequency in men and women, whereas GERD with reflux esophagitis is more prevalent among men.[4]. Esophagitis is found in 5–6% of the general population. Among affected individuals, 65–90% have mild to moderate esophagitis, while 10–35% present with a severe form. The prevalence of Barrett’s esophagus among patients with esophagitis approaches 8%.