Impairment of salivary epidermal growth factor secretory response to esophageal mechanical and chemical stimulation in patients with reflux esophagitis.

Abstract

Impairment in sEGF secretion during mechanical and chemical intraesophageal stimulation, mimicking the natural scenario occurring during gastroesophageal reflux, may facilitate the development of esophageal mucosal pathology and delay the healing of already developed mucosal injury.