The diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux in hospitalized infants: 1971-1995.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is being increasingly diagnosed and implicated for a range of pediatric problems. This study examines the diagnostic rate for GER in US Army hospitals between 1971 and 1995. During this 25-year period, 2059 diagnoses of GER were identified, for a 20-fold increase. Both the rate and total number of cases rose significantly in medical centers and community hospitals alike. The increase in GER diagnoses does not necessarily imply an increase in prevalence. It may be the result of an increased awareness of the problem or over diagnosis. However, it may also reflect an increased prevalence of pathologic GER, which is potentially the result of changes in the practice of infant care.