RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Oropharyngeal pH evaluation to determine the presence of airway reflux in asthmatic patients JF European Respiratory Journal JO Eur Respir J FD European Respiratory Society SP p4028 VO 38 IS Suppl 55 A1 Warren Jackson A1 Jennifer Burke A1 Alyn Morice YR 2011 UL http://erj.ersjournals.com/content/38/Suppl_55/p4028.abstract AB Introduction: Reflux disease can affect the tracheobronchial tree directly, this has been shown to lead to aspiration. Currently pharyngeal pH measuring detects only liquid reflux.Aims and objectives: To evaluate the presence of gaseous airway reflux in physician diagnosed asthmatic patients, utilising the “Dx-pH Measurement System” (Restech, Respiratory Technology Corporation, San Diego, California, USA). The Dx-pH probe can detect the pH of aerosolized droplets and liquid.Methods: Asthmatic patients with symptoms assessed on the Hull Airway Reflux Questionnaire (HARQ) underwent 24-hour airway pH monitoring with the Dx-pH measurement system. The probe was inserted transnasally in to the oropharynx with the distal end sitting lateral to the uvula. A Ryan score (composite pH score for pharyngeal acid exposure) was calculated for both the upright and supine periods.Results: The study population consisted of 12 asthmatic patients (1 male, 11 female) with a mean age of 50 (range 33 - 72). Ryan score values for the upright period were 2.12 - 612.57 (normal <9.41) and for the supine period were 2.17 - 38.01 (normal <6.80). The mean HARQ score was 32/70. Airway reflux was present, confirmed by an abnormal Ryan score in 75% of the study population in the upright position and 58% in the supine position.Conclusion: Airway reflux is a frequent condition in asthma patients. It should be recognised as a distinct entity that warrants specialized focus and treatment to improve the symptoms of patients suffering with extraoesophageal reflux and asthma. The Dx-pH probe is a useful diagnostic tool for patients with asthma and symptoms suggestive of airway reflux.