Biliary reflux

Biliary reflux, also called bile reflux, duodenogastroesophageal reflux (DGER) or duodenogastric reflux, is a condition that occurs when bile and/or other contents like bicarbonate and pancreatic enzymes flow upward (refluxes) from the duodenum into the stomach and esophagus.[1][2]

Biliary reflux can be confused with acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While bile reflux involves fluid from the small intestine flowing into the stomach and esophagus, acid reflux is backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. These conditions are often related, and differentiating between the two can be difficult.

Bile is a digestive fluid made by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and discharged into duodenum after food is ingested to aid in the digestion of fat. Normally, the pyloric sphincter prevents bile from entering the stomach. When the pyloric sphincter is damaged or fails to work correctly, bile can enter the stomach and then be transported into the esophagus as in gastric reflux. The presence of small amounts of bile in the stomach is relatively common and usually asymptomatic, but excessive refluxed bile causes irritation and inflammation.[3] Bile reflux has been associated with gastric cancer, chemical gastritis and the development of ulcers.[4]

  1. ^ Cite error: The named reference detection was invoked but never defined (see the help page).
  2. ^ Cheifetz, Adam S.; Brown, Alphonso; Curry, Michael; Alan C. Moss (2011-03-10). Oxford American Handbook of Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Oxford University Press US. pp. 239–. ISBN 978-0-19-538318-8. Retrieved 2 August 2011.
  3. ^ Distinguishing Between Bile Reflux and Acid Reflux can be Difficult
  4. ^ Cite error: The named reference refluxfr was invoked but never defined (see the help page).