Unraveling the Dynamics of Esophageal Motility, Esophagitis Severity, and Age in GERD Patients: A Cross-Sectional Exploration.

BACKGROUND: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is characterized by prolonged exposure of the esophageal mucosa to gastric content, with esophageal motility playing a pivotal role in its pathophysiology. This study employs a cross-sectional design to investigate the interplay between esophageal motility, the severity of esophagitis, and age in individuals presenting with GERD symptoms.

OBJECTIVE: The primary objective is to assess proximal and distal esophageal contractions in individuals with GERD symptoms, exploring potential correlations with the severity of esophageal lesions and age.

METHODS: A total of 47 patients reporting heartburn and acid regurgitation underwent diagnostic investigations, including esophageal manometry, radiological examinations, and endoscopy. Patients were categorized into groups based on the presence and severity of esophagitis. Esophageal contractions were monitored using a manometric method at various distances from the UES after swallowing 5 mL of water.

RESULTS: Patients with severe esophagitis (SE) exhibited a reduced distal esophageal contraction amplitude compared to those without esophagitis (WE) or with moderate esophagitis (ME). No significant age-related differences were observed in esophageal contractions. Analyses included contraction amplitude, duration, area under the curve (AUC), and propagation time.

CONCLUSION: This study provides insights into the nuanced relationship between esophageal motility, esophagitis severity, and age in GERD patients. The findings highlight the significance of distal esophageal contractions in SE cases, suggesting potential implications for disease progression. Age did not emerge as a significant factor influencing esophageal motility in this patient cohort.