Persistent right aortic arch and aberrant left subclavian artery in a dog / Persistência de arco aórtico direito e artéria subclávia esquerda aberrante em um cão

A 1.5-year-old male German Shepherd dog was referred to a Teaching Veterinary Hospital with a chronic history of regurgitation and a previous presumptive diagnosis of megaesophagus. An esophagogram showed partial esophageal dilation, suggesting one vascular ring anomaly. Computed tomography identified a persistent right aortic arch (PRAA) and an aberrant left subclavian artery (ALSA). The patient underwent thoracotomy, ligamentum arteriosum ligation, and debridement of the periesophageal region. The ligation of the ALSA was not carried out because the esophagus was observed to be released entirely during the surgical intervention. Therefore, intervention on the subclavian artery was not necessary. Clinical follow-up occurred on seven, 14, and 30 postoperative days. The dog improved, showing only sporadic regurgitations. Clinical history and complementary exams were essential to establish a diagnosis. The liberation of the esophageal transit during surgery contributed to the decision not to perform the ALSA ligation.(AU)

Um cão pastor alemão, macho, de 1,5 anos de idade, foi atendido em um Hospital Veterinário Universitário com história crônica de regurgitação e diagnóstico presuntivo prévio de megaesôfago. Um esofagograma mostrou dilatação parcial do esôfago sugerindo uma anomalia de anel vascular. A tomografia computadorizada identificou persistência do arco aórtico direito (PAAD) e artéria subclávia esquerda aberrante (ALSA). O paciente foi submetido à toracotomia, ligadura do ligamento arterioso e desbridamento da região periesofágica. A ligadura da ALSA não foi realizada, pois, durante a intervenção cirúrgica, observou-se que o esôfago estava completamente liberado, não sendo necessária intervenção na artéria subclávia. O acompanhamento clínico ocorreu aos sete, 14 e 30 dias de pós-operatório. O cão evidenciou boa recuperação, apresentando apenas regurgitações esporádicas. A história clínica associada aos exames complementares foi essencial para o diagnóstico. A liberação do trânsito esofágico durante a cirurgia contribuiu para a decisão de não realizar a ligadura da ALSA.(AU)

Diagnostic utility of salivary pepsin in laryngopharyngeal reflux: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Salivary pepsin has emerged as a biomarker for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR), which, however, has been questioned for its efficacy due to a lack of supporting medical data. Therefore, this study analyzed the diagnostic value of salivary pepsin for LPR and assessed a better cutoff value. METHODS: Studies were searched in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library from their receptions to October 1, 2021. Then, RevMan 5.3 and Stata 14.0 were utilized to summarize the diagnostic indexes for further meta-analysis. Data were separately extracted by two reviewers according to the trial data extraction form of the Cochrane Handbook. The risk of bias in Randomized Control Trials (RCTs) was evaluated with the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. RESULTS: A total of 16 studies matched the criteria and were subjected to meta-analysis. The results revealed a pooled sensitivity of 61% (95% CI 50%-71%), a pooled specificity of 67% (95% CI 48%-81%), a positive likelihood ratio of 2 (95% CI 1.2-2.8), a negative likelihood ratio of 0.58 (95% CI 0.47‒0.72), and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.67 (95% CI 0.63‒0.71). Subgroup analyses indicated that the cutoff value of pepsin at 50 ng/mL had a higher degree of diagnostic accuracy than that of pepsin at 16 ng/mL in cohort studies. CONCLUSION: The review demonstrated low diagnostic performance of salivary pepsin for LPR and that the cutoff value of 50 ng/mL pepsin had superior diagnostic accuracy. Nevertheless, the diagnostic value may vary dependent on the utilized diagnostic criteria. Therefore, additional research is needed on the improved way of identifying salivary pepsin in the diagnosis of LPR, and also longer-term and more rigorous RCTs are warranted to further assess the effectiveness of salivary pepsin.

Using RSI and RFS scores to differentiate between reflux-related and other causes of chronic laryngitis.

OBJECTIVE: To establish if the Reflux Symptom Index (RFI) and the Reflux Finding Score (RFC) can help establish the differential diagnosis in patients with distinct causes of chronic laryngopharyngitis. METHODS: A group of 102 adult patients with chronic laryngopharyngitis (Group A - 37 patients with allergic rhinitis; Group B - 22 patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA); Group C - 43 patients with Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR)) were prospectively studied. Chronic laryngitis was diagnosed based on suggestive symptoms and videolaryngoscopic signs (RSI ≥ 13 and RFS ≥ 7). Allergies were confirmed by a positive serum RAST, OSA was diagnosed with a positive polysomnography, and LPR with a positive impedance-PH study. Discriminant function analysis was used to determine if the combination of RSI and RFS scores could differentiate between groups. RESULTS: Patients with respiratory allergies and those with LPR showed similar and significantly higher RSI scores when compared to that of patients with OSA (p < 0.001); Patients with OSA and those with LPR showed similar and significantly higher RFS scores when compared to that of patients with Respiratory Allergies (OSA vs. Allergies p < 0.001; LPR vs. Allergies p < 0.002). The combination of both scores held a higher probability of diagnosing OSA (72.73%) and Allergies (64.86%) than diagnosing LPR (51.16%). CONCLUSIONS: RSI and RFS are not specific for reflux laryngitis and are more likely to induce a false diagnosis if not used with diligence.

The link between airway reflux and non-acid reflux in children: a review.

OBJECTIVE: Airway reflux, a member of extra-esophageal reflux, has been linked to countless respiratory pathologies amongst children. The advent of novel instrumentation has enabled the discovery of non-acid reflux which was postulated as the main culprit of airway reflux. The objective of this review is to outline the association between non-acid reflux and airway reflux in children. METHODS: A comprehensive review of recent literature on non-acid reflux and airway reflux in children was conducted. Studies ranged from January 2010 till November 2021 were searched over a period of a month: December 2021. RESULTS: A total of eleven studies were identified. All studies included in this review revealed a strong link between non-acid reflux and airway reflux in children. 6 of the included studies are prospective studies, 3 retrospective studies, 1 cross-section study, and type of study was not mentioned in 1 study. The most common reported respiratory manifestation of non-acid reflux in children was chronic cough (7 studies). Predominant non-acid reflux was noted in 4 studies. The total number of children in each study ranges from 21 to 150 patients. MII-pH study was carried out in all studies included as a diagnostic tool for reflux investigation. CONCLUSION: Non-acid reflux is the culprit behind airway reflux as well as other myriads of extra-esophageal manifestations in children. Multicentre international studies with a standardized protocol could improve scientific knowledge in managing non-acid reflux in airway reflux amongst children.

Translation and cultural adaptation of the Short Version of the Reflux Symptom Score: Reflux Symptom Score-12 into Brazilian Portuguese.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the process of translation into Brazilian Portuguese and cross-cultural adaptation of the French Reflux Symptom Score-12 questionnaire used for the diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux. METHODS: This was a cross-cultural translation and adaptation study of a health instrument, with a cross-sectional design. It was carried out in eight stages: translation from French into Brazilian Portuguese, cultural adaptation by a panel of experts, application of the first version (pilot test 1), adaptation by a panel of experts, application of the second version (pilot test 2), back translation, reviewing by a committee in conjunction with the author of the original instrument and, application of the final version. The Brazilian Portuguese versions of the questionnaire were applied to individuals with symptoms and signs of laryngopharyngeal reflux who underwent pHmetry and esophageal manometry at the study site. RESULTS: In pilot test 1, the first version of the RSS-12 in Brazilian Portuguese was applied to 30 patients. The patients had no difficulty to understand any of the 12 symptom items, but 15 patients (50%) had difficulty interpreting the symptom frequency score. After adapting the format of the frequency score, a version 2 of the RSS-12 in Brazilian Portuguese was applied to another 23 patients, who completed the questionnaire in full without any difficulty. Along with the review committee, the author of the original RSS-12 considered the version 2 to be adequate and did not propose any changes, so it was approved as the final version of the Brazilian Portuguese RSS-12. CONCLUSION: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the instrument, called Reflux Symptom Score-12 PT-BR, shows good understanding and linguistic, conceptual and content equivalence, in relation to the original Reflux Symptom Score-12.

Vocal deviation in individuals with suggestive signs and symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux. / Desvio vocal em indivíduos com sinais e sintomas sugestivos de refluxo laringofaríngeo.

PURPOSE: Verify and compare vocal deviation in quality, vocal symptoms and reflux symptom index in patients with clinical diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). METHODS: 100 individuals of both genders participated in this prospective study, aged between 18 and 60 years old, who presented signs of LPR in the nasofibrolaryngological exam. Participants answered the Reflux Symptom Index (RSI) questionnaire to determine the reflux index and the Voice Symptom Scale (VoiSS). Their voices were recorded for the auditory-perceptual assessment. Three speech therapists with voice experience were contacted and the most reliable one was maintained. RESULTS: 100 examined voices, 34 were classified as adapted and 66 as deviated. The predominant vocal quality type was rough and a slight degree of deviation. The average score on VoiSS and RSI of individuals with deviated voice is significantly higher than the adapted voice group on both protocols (p<0.01). The symptom reported with most frequency and intensity, in both analyses, was throat clearing. There were statistically significant differences once analyzed the vocal quality types by pairs: rough-adapted (p=0.0021) and tense-adapted (p=0.0075) on VoiSS, and rough-adapted (p=0.001) on RSI. CONCLUSION: Individuals with deviated voice reported higher occurrence of LPR related vocal signals and symptoms measured by VoiSS and RSI. The numerous theories about the disease do not make possible a single conclusion on the subject. Further studies are needed in the area to assist the professional in the diagnosis and treatment of the RLF patient.

OBJETIVO: verificar e comparar o desvio da qualidade vocal, sintomas vocais e índice de sintomas de refluxo em pacientes com diagnóstico clínico sugestivo de refluxo laringofaríngeo (RLF). MÉTODO: participaram deste estudo prospectivo 100 indivíduos de ambos os sexos, com faixa etária entre 18 e 60 anos que apresentaram sinais de RLF no exame nasofibrolaringológico. Os participantes responderam ao questionário Índice de Sintomas do Refluxo Faringo-Laríngeo (ISRFL) para determinar presença de sintomas de refluxo e a Escala de Sintomas Vocais (ESV). Tiveram suas vozes gravadas para a avaliação perceptivoauditiva. Foram contatadas três fonoaudiólogas com experiência em voz e manteve-se a de maior confiabilidade. RESULTADOS: 100 vozes avaliadas, 34 eram adaptadas e 66 desviadas. O tipo de qualidade vocal predominante foi rugoso e o grau de desvio leve. A média dos escores no ESV e ISRFL dos indivíduos com vozes desviadas foi significativamente maior que no grupo de vozes adaptadas em ambos os protocolos (p<0,01). O sintoma relatado com maior frequência e intensidade, em ambas as avaliações, foi pigarro. Houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas quando analisados os pares dos tipos de qualidade vocal: rugosa-adaptada (p=0,0021) e tensa-adaptada (p=0,0075) no ESV, e rugosa-adaptada (p=0,001) no ISRFL. CONCLUSÃO: indivíduos com vozes desviadas referiram maior ocorrência de sinais e sintomas vocais relacionadas ao RLF mensurados pela ESV e ISRFL. As inúmeras teorias a respeito da doença não tornam possível uma única conclusão sobre o assunto. São necessários novos estudos na área a fim de auxiliar o profissional no diagnóstico e tratamento do paciente com RLF.

Assessment of Laryngopharyngeal Reflux and Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Population-Based Study.

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS: To evaluate the presence of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and the potential association between presence of LPR symptoms and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in a representative sample from a population-based study. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: Participants of the follow-up of the Epidemiological Sleep Study were evaluated. Sleep was assessed through questionnaires and polysomnography. The presence of LPR was based on the questionnaire Reflux Score Index (RSI), and scores higher than 13 were suggestive of LPR. A general linear model test was used for comparison of continuous data and Pearson's chi-square test was used to compare categorical variables. Predictors of LPR were obtained by regression analysis. RESULTS: 701 were enrolled (54.8% female, 45.2% male; mean age, 50.2 ± 13.3 years). The mean apnea-hypopnea index score was 17 ± 18.3 events/hr, and the mean RSI score was 7.0 ± 8.1. LPR was found in 17% of the volunteers, whereas OSA was present in 38.5% of the sample. Specifically, in those patients with OSA, the prevalence of LPR was 45.4%; however, there was no statistically significant association between LPR and the presence of OSA. The severity of OSA was not associated with RSI score. The presence of LPR was associated with older age, smoking, excessive daytime sleepiness and worse quality of life and sleep scores questionnaires. CONCLUSIONS: Age, smoking, but not body mass index, were associated with LPR. There was not statistically significant association of LPR with OSA. Individuals with symptoms of LPR had greater drowsiness and worse quality of life and sleep. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3 Laryngoscope, 132:1877-1882, 2022.

Management of laryngopharyngeal reflux in Brazil: a national survey.

INTRODUCTION: Studies assessing the management of laryngopharyngeal reflux by otolaryngologists have reported an important heterogeneity regarding the definition, diagnosis, and treatment, which leads to discrepancies in the management of the patient. Information about the current knowledge and practices of Brazilian otolaryngologists in laryngopharyngeal reflux is lacking. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the trends in management of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease among Brazilian otolaryngologists. METHODS: A survey was sent by email to the members of the Brazilian Association of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery. This survey has initially been conducted by the laryngopharyngeal reflux study group of young otolaryngologists of the International Federation of Otolaryngological Societies. RESULTS: According to the survey responders, the prevalence of laryngopharyngeal reflux was estimated to be 26.8% of patients consulting in otolaryngology and the most common symptoms were globus sensation, throat clearing, cough and stomach acid reflux. Nasal obstruction, Eustachian tube dysfunction, acute and chronic otitis media, vocal fold nodules and hemorrhage were considered not associated with laryngopharyngeal reflux by the majority of responders. About 2/3 of Brazilian otolaryngologists based the diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux on the assessment of both symptoms and findings and a positive response to empiric therapeutic trials. Proton pump inhibitor utilized once or twice daily, was the most commonly used therapeutic scheme. Only 21.4% of Brazilian otolaryngologists have heard about nonacid and mixed laryngopharyngeal reflux and the awareness about the usefulness of multichannel intraluminal impedance pH monitoring (MII-pH) was minimal; 30.5% of responders did not consider themselves as well-informed about laryngopharyngeal reflux. CONCLUSION: Although the laryngopharyngeal reflux-related symptoms, main diagnostic and treatment approaches referred by Brazilian otolaryngologists are consistent with the literature, the survey identified some limitations, such as the insufficient awareness of the role of laryngopharyngeal reflux in many otolaryngological conditions and of the possibility of non-acid or mixed reflux in refractory cases. Future studies are needed to establish international recommendations for the management of laryngopharyngeal reflux disease.

Correlación diagnóstica entre fibrolaringoscopia y videoendoscopia digestiva alta en pacientes con reflujo gastroesofágico y reflujo laringofaríngeo / Diagnostic Correlation Between Fiberlaringoscopy and Upper Gastrointestinal Video Endoscopy in Patients with Gastroesophagic Reflux and Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

Introducción: el reflujo laringofaríngeo (RLF) se origina por el flujo retrógrado de contenido gástrico hacia la faringe, pero es una entidad diferente de la enfermedad por reflujo gastroesofágico (ERGE). El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la correlación entre los signos endoscópicos de la fibrolaringoscopia y la videoendoscopia digestiva alta (VEDA). Material y métodos: estudio observacional, retrospectivo y analítico. Se incluyeron pacientes que consultaron por sintomatología de RLF y ERGE. Los hallazgos visualizados por fibrolaringoscopia flexible, VEDA y biopsia de mucosa gástrica de cada paciente se compararon con la prueba de chi-cuadrado (χ²). Se consideró significativo un valor de p ≤ 0,05. Resultados: se incluyeron 318 pacientes entre 18 y 84 años. Se encontró que el 100 % de los pacientes con esofagitis tenía laringitis (p = 0,001); el 100 % de los pacientes con hernia hiatal tenían RLF (p = 0,001); el 97 % de los pacientes con Helicobacter pylori en la mucosa gástrica tenían RLF (p = 0.001). El 71 % de los pacientes con hernia hiatal tenían esofagitis (p = 0,001). Se encontró una asociación lineal entre la edad y la hernia hiatal con la edad y el RLF (p = 0,03). Conclusiones: en este estudio, los signos encontrados en la fibrolaringoscopia tuvieron una asociación estadística con la VEDA. Aproximadamente el 90 % de los pacientes con signos de laringitis tuvo una correlación con algún grado de esofagitis, esófago de Barrett, hernia hiatal y Helicobacter pylori. También se encontró que la laringitis por RLF y la hernia hiatal se relacionaron directamente con el incremento de la edad.

Introduction: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is caused by the retrograde flow of gastric contents towards the pharynx, but it is a different entity from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The objective of the study was to determine the relationship between the endoscopic signs of fiber laryngoscopy and upper gastrointestinal video endoscopy. Material and methods: Observational, retrospective and analytical study. Patients who consulted for LPR and GERD symptoms were included. The findings visualized by flexible fiber laryngoscopy, upper gastrointestinal video endoscopy and gastric mucosal biopsy of each patient were compared with the Chi-square (χ²) test. A value of p ≤ 0.05 is estimated significantly. Results: 318 patients between 18 and 84 years old were included. A relationship was found in 100% of the patients with esophagitis had laryngitis (p = 0.001); 100% of the patients with hiatal hernia had LPR (p = 0.001); 97% of patients with Helicobacter pylori in the gastric mucosal have LPR (p= 0.001); 71% of patients with hiatal hernia had esophagitis (p = 0.001). A linear association was found between age and hiatal hernia with age and LPR. (p = 0.03). Conclusions: In this study, the signs found in fiber laryngoscopy had a statistical association with the upper gastrointestinal video endoscopy. Approximately 90% of patients with signs of laryngitis had correlation with some degree of esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, hiatal hernia and Helicobacter pylori. It was also found that LPR and hiatal hernia were directly related to increasing age

Características do padrão de refluxo na posição ortostática versus posição supina em pacientes com refluxo laringofaríngeo

Resumo Introdução: Muitos problemas relacionados à laringe têm sido atribuídos ao refluxo laringofaríngeo, inclusive disfonia, pigarro frequente, tosse crônica e sensação de "globus" faríngeo. No entanto, ainda há controvérsias quanto ao diagnóstico e à apresentação clínica dessa condição clínica. Objetivo: Descrever as características do refluxo laringofaríngeo de diferentes posições, em pacientes diagnosticados por meio de pHmetria orofaríngea. Método: Foi feita uma revisão retrospectiva de prontuários de 161 pacientes com refluxo laringofaríngeo diagnosticado por pHmetria orofaríngea de 24 horas. Os indivíduos do estudo foram categorizados em grupos com refluxo laringofaríngeo na posição ortostática e refluxo laringofaríngeo na posição supina com base nos resultados do pH. Os dois grupos foram comparados quanto à apresentação clínica e às características do pH. Resultados: Foram encontradas taxas significativamente mais altas de refluxo laringofaríngeo na posição ortostática em comparação à posição supina (p < 0,0001). Os resultados do índice de sintomas de refluxo foram significativamente maiores no grupo com refluxo laringofaríngeo na posição ortostática em comparação com o grupo com refluxo laringofaríngeo na posição supina. O uso do escore de Ryan composto (composite Ryan score) para a pHmetria orofaríngea de 24 horas foi significantemente maior no grupo com refluxo laringofaríngeo ortostático em relação ao grupo supino (p < 0,0001). Nenhuma diferença significante foi encontrada entre os grupos refluxo laringofaríngeo na posição ortostática e posição supina em relação à frequência da apresentação clínica ou classificações do índice de desvantagem vocal. Conclusão: O refluxo laringofaríngeo foi mais prevalente na posição ortostática entre os grupos de estudo. As características relacionadas ao refluxo, inclusive parâmetros de pH, foram mais evidentes no refluxo laringofaríngeo na posição ortostática.

[Diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal Reflux by Impedance with esophageal pHmetry in children with chronic dysphonia]. / Diagnóstico de Reflujo faringolaríngeo mediante Impedanciometría con pHmetría esofágica en niños con disfonía crónica.

INTRODUCTION: Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) is the retrograde flow of gastric or duodenal contents into the pharynx and larynx, causing inflammation in the upper aerodigestive tract. Traditionally, a pH monitoring study with an acid reflux index was used. The use of multichannel intraluminal impedance testing with pH monitoring (MII-pH) confirms a causal relationship between suspicious symptoms and LPR. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate LPR diagnosed by MII-pH in the pediatric population consulting due to chronic dysphonia and laryngoscopic findings suggestive of LPR, in addition, to measure the concordance between MII-pH and traditional pH monitoring. PATIENTS AND METHOD: Descriptive, prospective study of patients consulting at the Gastroenterology or Otorhinolaryngology polyclinic due to chronic dysphonia, whose nasofibrolaryngoscopy (NFL) was suggestive of LPR. The patients were hospitalized for a 24-hour MII-pH. Patients with a congenital or acquired morbid history were excluded. Pathological LPR was considered if there were 3 or more acid reflux episodes at the pro ximal level in MII-pH. The frequency of traditional pH monitoring and altered MII-pH and the concordance between both methods were evaluated. RESULTS: 12 patients were recruited, 10 men, 6 to 15 years old. On 9/12, pathological LPR was confirmed by MII-pH, of which 2/9 had traditional pH measurements in normal ranges and 7/9 altered pH measurements. In 3 patients, LPR was ruled out by normal proximal MII-pH. The concordance between MII-pH and traditional pH monitoring was acceptable (kappa 0.4). CONCLUSIONS: 75% of the patients with dysphonia and suggestive NFL showed objective evidence of pathological LPR. Since only with the clinical evaluation, NFL and conventional pH monitoring it is not possible to diagnose LPR, we recommend perform MII-pH for greater diag nostic certainty, avoiding unnecessary treatment, and with unwanted effects in 25% of cases.

Sensitivity, Specificity, and Reproducibility of the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Reflux Symptom Index.

INTRODUCTION: The diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux is controversial. There is currently no gold standard, so it relies mainly on suspicious clinical symptoms and videolaryngoscopic findings. Unfortunately these signs and symptoms are common to other causes of chronic laryngitis. Scoring systems have been proposed to reduce subjectivity in clinical diagnosis. The most widely used and accepted is the Reflux Symptom Index, which has already been translated into over 10 other languages. OBJECTIVE: Study the psychometric properties of the Brazilian Portuguese version of the Reflux Symptom Index (Índice de Sintomas de Refluxo - ISR). METHODS: One hundred and fifty-four adults, 88 with laryngopharyngeal reflux and 66 healthy controls, were studied over a 6-month period, responding to the ISR after thoroughly investigated on possible other causes of chronic laryngitis and the presence of gastroesophageal disease. Test and retest reliability was addressed by reapplying the score to a random subgroup of 101 subjects. RESULTS: The ISR of subjects was significantly higher than that of controls (Student t test for independent samples, P < 0.001). The ISR also showed high temporal stability and reproducibility (ICC of 0.988 with a confidence interval of 0.982-0.992). The ISR at a cutoff of 13 points presented a sensitivity of 78.4%, a specificity of 95.4%, a false negative of 4.55%, a false positive of 21.59%, a positive predictive value of 95.83%, and a negative predictive value of 86.93%. CONCLUSION: The ISR proved to be a valid and reliable diagnostic tool.

Characteristics of upright versus supine reflux pattern in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux.

INTRODUCTION: Many laryngeal-related problems have been attributed to laryngopharyngeal reflux including dysphonia, frequent throat clearing, chronic cough, and globus sensation. However, there is still controversy regarding diagnosis and clinical presentation of this disorder. OBJECTIVE: The main objective of this study is to describe laryngopharyngeal reflux characteristics of different reflux position patterns in laryngopharyngeal reflux patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal pH monitoring. METHODS: A retrospective chart review was conducted for 161 laryngopharyngeal reflux patients diagnosed with 24h oro-pharyngeal pH monitoring. Study subjects were categorized into upright and supine laryngopharyngeal reflux groups based on the pH results. The two groups were compared regarding the clinical presentation and pH characteristics. RESULTS: Significant higher rates of upright laryngopharyngeal reflux position than supine laryngopharyngeal reflux position (P<0.0001) were reported among the study group. Reflux symptoms index results were significantly higher in the upright larybgopharyngeal reflux group compared to the supine laryngopharyngeal reflux group. 24h oropharyngeal pH measurements composite Ryan score was significantly higher in the upright group compared to the supine group (P<0.0001). No significant difference was found between the upright and supine laryngopharyngeal reflux groups regarding the frequency of clinical presentation or voice handicap index ratings. CONCLUSION: Laryngopharyngeal reflux was found to be more prevalent occurring in the upright position among the study group. Reflux-related characteristics including pH parameters were more evident in the upright laryngopharyngeal reflux position.

Validation of the Brazilian Portuguese Version of the Reflux Finding Score.

INTRODUCTION: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) poses a diagnostic challenge. Clinical diagnosis, based on suggestive symptoms and laryngoscopic signs of inflammation, should be acceptable, as long as diligent differential diagnosis is sought. In order to minimize subjectivity, a number of diagnostic instruments have been proposed, being the most common the Reflux Symptom Index and the Reflux Finding Score (RFS). The latter has been translated into several languages including Portuguese, but it still has not been properly validated in this language. OBJECTIVE: To validate the Brazilian Portuguese version of the RFS. MATERIAL AND METHOD: For validity and internal consistency, 172 adults were studied (106 with LPR and 66 healthy controls). Flexible transnasal laryngoscopy images were randomly examined twice by each of the two experienced otolaryngologists with a 72-hour interval. Strict exclusion criteria were applied to avoid other possible known causes of chronic laryngitis. For assessment of reproducibility and temporal stability, a random sample of 108 subjects (53 patients and 55 controls) were tested and retested. RESULTS: A statistically significant difference was observed in the mean RFS between patients with LPR (10.26 ± 3.58) and controls (5.52 ± 1.34) (P < 0.001). The interclass correlation coefficient comparing test and retest for both raters was high (R1 = 0.956; R2 =  0.948). CONCLUSION: The Brazilian Portuguese version of the RFS proved to be a reliable and reproducible instrument for the diagnosis of LPR with a sensitivity of 82.08%, a specificity of 93.94%, a positive predictive value of 95.60%, and a negative predictive value was 76.54%.

Signs and symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux and its relation to complaints and vocal quality. / Sinais e sintomas de refluxo laringofaríngeo e sua relação com queixas e qualidade vocal.

PURPOSE: To verify the association between laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) with age, gender, vocal deviation and voice complaints. METHODS: The study included patients between 18 and 70 years old, referred to the Otorhinolaryngology service for complaints of voice or reflux, of both sexes. Endolaryngeal findings were classified using the Reflux Finding Score (RFS) scale. The presence or absence of vocal and reflux complaints was verified and correlated with the RFS classification. On the same date, they were submitted to sustained vowel voice recording and chained speech. The auditory-perceptual assessment was performed by a speech therapist, classifying the general degree of vocal deviation based on the GRBASI scale. RESULTS: Ninety-seven patients were evaluated, with a mean age of 42. 6 years, 62. 3% female, and mean RFS scores of 6. 26 points. Among the patients, 48 subjects had vocal complaints, 34 women with a mean age of 44. 9 years and an average RFS score of 6. 94 points. The other 49 individuals had no vocal complaints, and of these 27 were women, with a mean age of 41. 2 years and a mean RFS score of 5. 5 points. The variables "reflux complaint", "vocal complaint" and age were the ones that most correlated with the RFS scale scores. CONCLUSION: There is a relationship among reflux complaints, laryngeal findings and vocal complaint.

OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação entre Refluxo laringofaríngeo (RLF) com idade, sexo, desvio vocal e queixas de voz. MÉTODO: Participaram do estudo pacientes entre 18 e 70 anos, encaminhados ao serviço de otorrinolaringologia por queixas de voz ou refluxo, de ambos os sexos. Os achados endolaríngeos foram classificados utilizando a escala Reflux Finding Score (RFS). A presença ou não de queixas vocais e de refluxo foi verificada e correlacionada com a classificação RFS. Na mesma data, os pacientes foram submetidos à gravação de voz de vogal sustentada e fala encadeada. A avaliação perceptivo-auditiva foi realizada por uma fonoaudióloga, classificando o grau geral do desvio vocal com base na escala GRBASI. RESULTADOS: Foram avaliados 97 pacientes, com média de idade de 42,6 anos, sendo 62,3% do sexo feminino e média dos escores da escala RFS igual a 6,26 pontos. Do total de pacientes, 48 indivíduos apresentavam queixas vocais, sendo 34 mulheres com idade média de 44,9 anos e escore RFS médio de 6,94 pontos. Os outros 49 indivíduos não apresentavam queixas vocais, e desses 27 eram mulheres, com idade média de 41,2 anos e média de escore RFS igual a 5,5 pontos. As variáveis "queixa de refluxo", "queixa vocal" e idade foram as que mais se correlacionaram com os escores da escala RFS. CONCLUSÃO: Há relação entre queixas de refluxo, achados laríngeos e queixa vocal.

Biomonitoring of Owls and Their Environment Using Pellets and Feathers.

Owls are predators that perform important ecological functions. There are several threats to owl conservation such as the bioaccumulation of chemicals through environmental contamination. The high probability of bioaccumulation in these animals is related to their role as predators and high trophic positions. The objective of this study was to quantify four elements (cadmium, chromium, nickel, and lead) as the biomarkers of environmental exposure in owls. To this end, we analyzed pellets and feathers of different owl species. These matrices were contaminated with all four elements, with chromium most commonly detected. Chromium and nickel were found in the pellets in all 10 months of the study, and May was the month with the highest concentrations of all the elements. Tyto furcata appears to bioaccumulate more elements in its feathers than Megascops spp. and Athene cunicularia. Our findings showed bioaccumulation of these four elements in owls and their environment.

Spirocerca lupi (Spirurida: Spirocercidae) infection associated to secondary megaesophagus and obstructive process in a senile dog / Infecção por Spirocerca lupi (Spirurida: Spirocercidae) associada a megaesôfago secundário e processo obstrutivo em um cão senil

Spirocerca lupi is a nematode parasite that can be found in the esophagus and aorta of carnivores, including humans. Affected animals may develop mild to severe lesions, depending on the degree of infection, route of larval migration and the inflammatory response. The present work describes the occurrence of S. lupi in a 16-year old male Chow Chow dog, presenting a chronic esophagus infection, associated with a critical obstruction. After the identification of the parasite egg by faecal exam, the patient was treated with milbemycin in combination with praziquantel P.O., in days zero, seven and 28 after the diagnose. An esophagogram was also performed, confirming the secondary megaesophagus. The team of clinicians decide to perform a euthanasia due to the complication of the patient"s condition, even after the anthelmintic treatment. This report is important as it describes a case after 18 years of epidemiological silence in the Metropolitan region of Curitiba, PR, Brazil. The present data aims to raise awareness about the prevalence of this zoonotic disease and the importance of a specific clinical and radiographic diagnose in dogs. It is noteworthy to report the difficulty to reduce the size of the associated esophagus mass even after a potent anthelmintic treatment.

Spirocerca lupi é um parasito nematoide que pode ser encontrado no esôfago e na aorta de carnívoros, incluindo humanos. Os animais afetados pela doença podem desenvolver de lesões leves a graves, dependendo do grau de infecção, migração larval e resposta inflamatória. O presente trabalho descreve a ocorrência do parasito em um cão Chow Chow de 16 anos de idade, com infecção crônica, apresentando megaesôfago secundário associado a uma crítica obstrução do órgão. Após a identificação do ovo do parasito, foi realizado tratamento antiparasitário oral com a combinação de milbemicina e praziquantel, nos dias zero, sete e 28 após o diagnóstico. Também foi realizado esofagograma, confirmando o megaesôfago secundário. A equipe médica decidiu pela eutanásia do cão devido a sua complicação da condição clínica quando o paciente retornou, mesmo após o tratamento com anti-helmíntico. Este relato é importante porque descreve um caso após 18 anos de silêncio epidemiológico na região metropolitana de Curitiba, Paraná, Brasil. Os presentes dados visam conscientizar sobre a prevalência dessa doença zoonótica e a importância de um diagnóstico clínico e radiográfico específico em cães. É digno de nota relatar a dificuldade em reduzir o tamanho da massa esofágica associada, mesmo após um tratamento anti-helmíntico potente.

Spirocerca lupi (Spirurida: Spirocercidae) infection associated to secondary megaesophagus and obstructive process in a senile dog / Infecção por Spirocerca lupi (Spirurida: Spirocercidae) associada a megaesôfago secundário e processo obstrutivo em um cão senil

Spirocerca lupi is a nematode parasite that can be found in the esophagus and aorta of carnivores, including humans. Affected animals may develop mild to severe lesions, depending on the degree of infection, route of larval migration and the inflammatory response. The present work describes the occurrence of S. lupi in a 16-year old male Chow Chow dog, presenting a chronic esophagus infection, associated with a critical obstruction. After the identification of the parasite egg by faecal exam, the patient was treated with milbemycin in combination with praziquantel P.O., in days zero, seven and 28 after the diagnose. An esophagogram was also performed, confirming the secondary megaesophagus. The team of clinicians decide to perform a euthanasia due to the complication of the patient"s condition, even after the anthelmintic treatment. This report is important as it describes a case after 18 years of epidemiological silence in the Metropolitan region of Curitiba, PR, Brazil. The present data aims to raise awareness about the prevalence of this zoonotic disease and the importance of a specific clinical and radiographic diagnose in dogs. It is noteworthy to report the difficulty to reduce the size of the associated esophagus mass even after a potent anthelmintic treatment.(AU)

Spirocerca lupi é um parasito nematoide que pode ser encontrado no esôfago e na aorta de carnívoros, incluindo humanos. Os animais afetados pela doença podem desenvolver de lesões leves a graves, dependendo do grau de infecção, migração larval e resposta inflamatória. O presente trabalho descreve a ocorrência do parasito em um cão Chow Chow de 16 anos de idade, com infecção crônica, apresentando megaesôfago secundário associado a uma crítica obstrução do órgão. Após a identificação do ovo do parasito, foi realizado tratamento antiparasitário oral com a combinação de milbemicina e praziquantel, nos dias zero, sete e 28 após o diagnóstico. Também foi realizado esofagograma, confirmando o megaesôfago secundário. A equipe médica decidiu pela eutanásia do cão devido a sua complicação da condição clínica quando o paciente retornou, mesmo após o tratamento com anti-helmíntico. Este relato é importante porque descreve um caso após 18 anos de silêncio epidemiológico na região metropolitana de Curitiba, Paraná, Brasil. Os presentes dados visam conscientizar sobre a prevalência dessa doença zoonótica e a importância de um diagnóstico clínico e radiográfico específico em cães. É digno de nota relatar a dificuldade em reduzir o tamanho da massa esofágica associada, mesmo após um tratamento anti-helmíntico potente.(AU)