Pediatr. praxi. 2026;27(3):169-173 | DOI: 10.36290/ped.2026.026

Association of gastroesophageal reflux and recurrent bronchospasms in preschool children: from pathophysiology to practice

MUDr. Peter Kunč, PhD.1, 3, MUDr. Jaroslav Fábry, PhD.2, MUDr. Tomáš Strachan, PhD., prof. MUDr. Renata Péčová, PhD., MPH3
1 Národný ústav detskej tuberkulózy a respiračných chorôb, n. o., Dolný Smokovec
2 Klinika detskej tuberkulózy a respiračných chorôb JLF UK a Národného ústavu detskej tuberkulózy a respiračných chorôb, n. o., Dolný Smokovec
3 Ústav patologickej fyziológie, Univerzita Komenského v Bratislave, Jesseniova lekárska fakulta v Martine

Recurrent wheezing represents a significant cause of respiratory morbidity in preschool children. While viral infections remain the primary drivers, comorbidities such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and extraesophageal reflux (EER) play a significant role in refractory cases. This review analyzes the complex and bidirectional relationship between reflux and the respiratory tract, focusing on the pathophysiological mecha­nisms of microaspiration and the vagal reflex. It critically assesses the limitations of standard pH-metry in detecting non-acid reflux and highlights the importance of multichannel intraluminal impedance . Finally, it summarizes practical management strategies aligned with current guidelines, integrating lifestyle modifications and targeted pharmacotherapy.

Keywords: gastroesophageal reflux disease, extraesophageal reflux, recurrent wheezing, MII-pH monitoring, pepsin, preschool children.

Accepted: June 22, 2026; Published: July 1, 2026  Show citation

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Kunč P, Fábry J, Strachan T, Péčová R. Association of gastroesophageal reflux and recurrent bronchospasms in preschool children: from pathophysiology to practice. Pediatr. praxi. 2026;27(3):169-173. doi: 10.36290/ped.2026.026.
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