Management of gastro-esophageal reflux disease in infants less than 3 months old in Ain Shams University NICUs

Abstract

Gastro-esophageal reflux is a frequently experienced physiological condition, with involuntary retrograde passage of the gastric contents into the esophagus. It affects 75-80% of infants less than 2 months old and usually resolves spontaneously. When complicated or affecting the quality of life, the condition is called gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Gastro-esophageal reflux is classified into primary GER or secondary GER (secondary to neurological, genetic conditions or anatomical anomalies of the GI tract). It is suspected when there are unexplained recurrent attacks of vomiting and regurgitation, repeated respiratory tract infections, weight loss and failure to thrive.