GASTRIC ASTHMA - NO CHANGE IN RESPIRATORY IMPEDANCE DURING INTRAESOPHAGEAL ACIDIFICATION IN ADULT ASTHMATICS

Background: In patients with asthma, gastroesophageal reflux (GER) has been shown to be a common finding, and a number of investigators have suggested that reflux may have a deleterious effect in athma, either as a result of recurrent (micro)aspiration or by some form of a reflex mechanism. Aim of the Study: To measure changes in lung function in response to intraesophageal acid perfusion in asthmatics with GER. Methods: In 12 patients with bronchial asthma and complaints suggesting GER with increased reflux scores during 24-h intraesophageal pH monitoring, impedance measurements of the respiratory system using the technique of forced oscillations and spirometry were performed after intraesophageal acidification. Results: No statistically significant changes in FEV1 or in respiratory impedance were demonstrated after intraesophageal acid provocation. Conclusion: No direct effect of intraesophageal acidification on bronchomotor tone was demonstrated in asthmatics with GER.