Objectives: To observe the effects of reflux esophagitis(RE) on the lung function and airway reactivity, and study the mechanism of airway hyperresponsiveness(AHR) in patients with RE.
Methods: Lung function measurements and airway provocation tests were performed in 31 RE patients and 35 control subjects. TXB2 and PGF1a were determined in 20 cases of each group.
Results: In RE patients the lung function was lower and the rate of AHR was higher than control subjects (P < 0.05). Among RE patients 25% had higher airway sensitivity (Dmin < 3 u). The TXB2 of RE patients with AHR was higher than those without AHR. Dmin correlated significantly with TXB2 (r = -0.653, P < 0.05).
Conclusions: RE could damage the lung function. The rate of AHR was 61%, the high airway sensitivity was probably potential asthma, and TXB2 may play a role in the pathogenesis of AHR.