Pattern of Presentation of Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease among Patients with Dyspepsia in Kano, Nigeria

BACKGROUND: Dyspepsia is a symptom complex rather than a specific disease entity. It can be caused by both organic and functional gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) though a common digestive disorder worldwide is scarcely reported in Nigeria. The aim of this study is to determine the pattern of presentation of GORD among patients with dyspepsia. METHODS: One hundred and seventy dyspeptic patients were recruited consecutively as they were referred to the Gastroenterology Unit of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital for upper GI endoscopy. A prepared questionnaire on relevant demographic and clinical history relating to GORD was administered. Upper GI endoscopy was then performed on each patient. RESULTS: The prevalence of GORD was 24.1%, with a M:F ratio of 1:1.1. Endoscopy-positive variant accounted for 16 cases (9.4%), while endoscopy-negative variant accounted for 25 cases (14.7%), with of the total GORD patients, 26(63.4%) were males while 15(36.6%) were females. Los Angeles Grade A (37.5%) was the predominant endoscopic esophageal mucosal injury found in 6 cases. Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma accounted 4.9% each and were considered to be rare. Extra-esophageal manifestations were also rare. CONCLUSIONS: Endoscopy-negative variant still remains the predominant endoscopic finding in GORD patients.