Risk Factors for Symptoms in Patients With Heterotopic Gastric Mucosa in the Upper Esophagus

<b>Goal:</b> This study is aimed at comparing the clinical characteristics and histological types of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with heterotopic gastric mucosa in the upper esophagus (HGMUE) and exploring the factors influencing the occurrence and severity of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) symptoms in these patients. <b>Background:</b> HGMUE is a potential cause of LPR symptoms. <b>Study:</b> This retrospective analysis evaluated 70 patients with HGMUE using a detailed questionnaire. Clinical, histological, high-resolution manometry, and 24-h pH impedance monitoring data were compared between symptomatic (<i>n</i> = 49) and asymptomatic (<i>n</i> = 21) patients. <b>Results</b>: The diameter of HGMUE was significantly larger in the symptomatic group (<i>p</i> < 0.05), and the incidence of LPR symptoms increased with larger diameter grades; male patients were more likely to have LPR symptoms. The incidence of LPR symptoms varied significantly across histological classifications, being highest in patients with the fundic type (<i>χ</i> ² = 6.64, <i>p</i> < 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis identified sex and histological type as risk factors for LPR symptoms, with odds ratios of 8.996 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.350-59.962) and 8.493 (95% CI: 1.486-48.522), respectively. The mean nocturnal baseline impedance (MNBI) in the upper esophagus was significantly lower in the symptomatic group (1676.82 ± 739.09 <i>Ω</i> vs. 2441.01 ± 604.11 <i>Ω</i>; <i>p</i> < 0.05). Clinical and demographic characteristics did not significantly affect the severity of LPR symptoms. <b>Conclusion:</b> The diameter, histological type, and sex of patients are risk factors for the occurrence of LPR symptoms in patients with HGMUE. More attention should be paid to patients with these factors. The MNBI is an effective indicator of the symptoms and treatment.