Mucosal changes in laryngopharyngeal reflux--prevalence, sensitivity, specificity and assessment.

Objectives/hypothesis: A literature review regarding the use of laryngopharyngeal mucosal signs in diagnosing laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Study Design: Literature review.

Methods: A search of MEDLINE in February 2012 using the terms laryngopharyngeal reflux, laryngitis, mucosa, appearances, and signs (English language only).

Results: One or more laryngopharyngeal mucosal signs associated with LPR were identified in 64% to 93% of healthy volunteers (3% >5 signs) and in 17% to 85% of gastroesophageal reflux disease sufferers (Reflux Finding Score [RFS] >7 in 24%). Reinke's edema, pseudosulcus, ventricular obliteration, vocal cord nodules, and granulomas have in some, but not all studies, been shown to be more prevalent in those with pH-proven pharyngeal reflux. Pseudosulcus, interarytenoid thickening, and Reinke's edema were more prevalent in those symptomatic of LPR than those not. The use of multiple mucosal signs may improve detection of reflux sufferers from asymptomatic controls. The RFS has a sensitivity and specificity of 87.8% and 37.5%, respectively, for picking up pH-proven pharyngeal reflux individuals. Inter- and intrarater reliability for identifying signs is fair to good in most studies.

Conclusions: The limited evidence for each mucosal finding should be considered in making the diagnosis of LPR. Further quality research in to mucosal findings in LPR is needed.