Gastro-esophageal reflux in severely retarded children.

Eight severely mentally retarded children with histories of recurrent vomiting, anemia and chest disease are reported. It is suggested that appropriate medical management improves the quality of life for such children and may also reduce the number of hospital admissions for the treatment of this cluster of symptoms. Symptoms of vomiting, anemia and recurrent pneumonia in retarded children should suggest gastro-esophageal reflux. Investigations should include the upper gastrointestinal tract, with specific attention being paid to esophageal reflux.