A novel scoring system for evaluating laryngopharyngeal reflux

Abstract Objective Although laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is a common condition in daily practice, no gold standard exists for its diagnosis. The objective of this study was to establish a simple and reliable scoring system for evaluating LPR consisting of both subjective and objective criteria. Methods This retrospective study includes 124 patients presenting with symptoms of LPR. In all patients, reflux symptom index (RSI), reflux finding score (RFS), oropharyngeal pH monitoring (PHM) and transnasal oesophagoscopy (TNE) were performed and rated in a special scoring system. Results A Horvath Score of 4‐5 for severe LPR was found in 76 patients (61%), a score of 2‐3 for non‐severe LPR in 38 patients (31%) and a score of 0‐1 for non‐existing LPR in 10 patients (8%) by combining the 4 validated diagnostic methods. Conclusion The proposed scoring system qualifies as a simple and reliable tool for evaluating LPR in daily practice, directly impacting patient management.