Influence of biliary reflux on the development of GERD in children with cholelithiasis (overlap syndrome)

Abstract

Diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract represent a leading problem in pediatric gastroenterology and are often associated with cholelithiasis. The present study demonstrated that biliary reflux and esophageal motor disorders play a significant role in the development and progression of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in children with cholelithiasis. Increasing severity of GERD is accompanied by enhanced biliary aggression, persistent inflammatory and erosive-ulcerative changes of the esophageal mucosa, and a higher risk of complications. The findings highlight the importance of considering the impact of biliary reflux in the diagnosis and management of combined pathology in pediatric patients.