Characteristics of the Tongue in Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease from the Perspective of Traditional Chinese Medicine: A Case-Control Study

Abstract

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease arises due to lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction. As tongue contact with stomach secretions can have different effects, we compared tongue characteristics mentioned in Chinese medicine in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease and healthy individuals. Methods: This case-control study evaluated 50 patients with confirmed gastroesophageal reflux disease and 50 healthy controls. The subjects were interviewed to detect the symptoms of the disease (including regurgitation and heartburn). Photos and videos of their tongues were then taken and assessed by a trained person in terms of coat thickness and color, shape or size, color, appearance (such as grooves and cracks), and margins. Findings: Most of the characteristics of the tongue did not significantly differ between cases and controls. However, abnormal structure and color of the tongue had significantly higher frequency in the case group than in the control group. Conclusion: Apparently, none of the macroscopic characteristics of the tongue (recommended by Chinese medicine) can be a valid and definite criterion in early diagnosis of gastroesophageal reflux disea. Keywords: Gastroesophageal reflux disease, Tongue, Tongue in traditional medicine