Should upper gastrointestinal endoscopy be part of the evaluation for supraesophageal symptoms of GERD?

The past decade has witnessed increasing interest in the supraesophageal (ear, nose, and throat (ENT)) symptoms potentially caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Hoarseness, halitosis, problems with vocal presentations, excessive phlegm, frequent throat clearing, globus sensation, sore throat, cough, aspiration, laryngospasm, and laryngeal carcinoma are some, but not all of the ENT symptoms that have been attributed to GERD (1). The availability of highly effective medical and surgical therapies allows for control of these symptoms in many patients adding to the importance of accurately diagnosing GERD. Copyright 2004 American College of Gastroenterology