Purpose: The presence of extra-gastric H⁺/K⁺ ATPases may explain the clinically significant effect of proton pump inhibitor (PPI) pharmacotherapy in patients with chronic laryngitis related to laryngopharyngeal reflux disease (LPRD) but without gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. Given the need for a better understanding of GERD and LPRD, we review the various proton pumps with respect to their classification, function, and distribution. We then consider the potential role of the laryngeal H⁺/K⁺ ATPase pump in LPRD.
Methods: We searched databases of PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science to achieve related published before September 15, 2020.
Results: There were only seven English-literatures meeting inclusive criteria about laryngeal H⁺/K⁺ ATPases. Some studies provide convincing evidence of a laryngeal H⁺/K⁺ ATPase in normal laryngeal tissues but also suggest the potential role of the proton pump in the abnormal mucus secretion frequently seen in patients with chronic laryngitis.
Conclusion: A laryngeal H⁺/K⁺ ATPase expresses in normal laryngeal tissues. These findings question the current understanding of GERD and LPRD.
Keywords: laryngopharyngeal reflux disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, larynx, proton pump, H⁺/K⁺ ATPases, chronic laryngitis