Pep test and soft tissue lesions of the oral cavity

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common disorder characterised by signs, symptoms and tissue damage induced by gastric contents. Few studies have investigated the association between soft tissue lesions of the oral cavity and GERD. Pepsin is one of the main components of reflux fluid. It may be found in saliva following reflux episodes. The aim of the study is to evaluate the correlation between the presence of pepsin in saliva and soft tissue lesions of the oral cavity in patients with GERD. Materials and methods: The study was conducted in 100 adult patients with typical GERD symptoms. The salivary pepsin test (PEP test) was used to assess the presence of pepsin in saliva and, therefore, the diagnosis of GERD. The presence of possible soft tissue lesions of the oral cavity was evaluated by means of a dental examination. Results: In 52% of the patients the PEP test was positive. Of these, 40% had soft tissue lesions of the oral cavity. The remaining 48% were negative in the PEP test and only 4% had soft tissue lesions of the oral cavity. Conclusions: The results showed a positive correlation between the presence of pepsin and soft tissue lesions in the oral cavity. However, further investigation is necessary.