Complications of reflux esophagitis and their medical management.

It is shortsighted to consider only the esophageal manifestations and complications of esophageal reflux. That such reflux can directly affect not only the lung but also the oropharynx and larynx, both by direct acid contact and reflex neurologic mechanisms, has been demonstrated repeatedly. The task of the future will be to place such reflux into perspective as it remains only one of many genetic and environmental factors associated with disparate and often confusing disease processes.