Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is very common, with approximately 20% of the adult western population complaining of symptoms once per week, leading to a large financial burden on society. Even though the impact of the disease is evident, the complex pathophysiology of GERD is still unknown. Although erosions are present in some patients, 70% of them do not have macroscopic damage. In this subgroup, an alteration in mucosal integrity has been proposed to play a key role on heartburn perception. Luminal factors present in the gastric juice such as acid, bile acids and trypsin and endogenous factors as psychological stress can compromise the oesophageal epithelium. By better understanding the factors and mechanisms involved in these alterations, we will better comprehend the pathophysiology of GERD.

Investigador de contacte:

Dra. Maria Vicario

maria.vicario@vhir.org