GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE IN PEDIATRICS: CLINICAL MANIFESTATIONS, DIAGNOSIS, AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to synthesize the available evidence in the scientific literature regarding Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in the pediatric population, with emphasis on clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods used, and therapeutic strategies applied in clinical practice, considering the particularities of each age group. Methodology: This is a systematic literature review aimed at understanding the main aspects related to GERD in infants and children. The research was guided by the question: "What are the main clinical manifestations of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease in pediatrics, what diagnostic methods are employed, and what therapeutic approaches are used in clinical practice?". Searches were conducted in the PubMed Central and Virtual Health Library databases, using descriptors combined with the Boolean operator "AND". 156 articles were identified, of which 15 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Results: The findings demonstrate that GERD presents wide clinical variability according to age, being more frequent and generally self-limiting in infants, while in older children and adolescents it tends to assume a more chronic course. Manifestations include classic gastrointestinal symptoms such as regurgitation and vomiting, as well as extraesophageal respiratory, otorhinolaryngological, and oral presentations. Diagnosis is predominantly based on clinical evaluation, with complementary examinations indicated in selected cases, especially in the face of complications or refractoriness to treatment. Therapeutic strategies prioritize non-pharmacological measures, with judicious use of drug therapies and surgical indication restricted to severe or refractory cases. Conclusion: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is a frequent condition in pediatrics and requires an individualized approach based on age, symptom severity, and the presence of complications. Early recognition and appropriate management are fundamental to reducing unnecessary interventions, preventing adverse outcomes, and improving the quality of life of pediatric patients.