Retrograde cricopharyngeal dysfunction (R‐CPD): What do we know so far?

• Published in: World journal of otorhinolaryngology - head and neck surgery 2024-09, Vol.10 (3), p.231-236
• Main Author: Alotaibi, Fahad Z.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: botulinum toxin; cricopharyngeal dysfunction; pharyngoesophageal segment; retrograde; Review; R‐CPD
• ISSN: 2095-8811; 2589-1081; 2589-1081
• DOI: 10.1002/wjo2.127

Objective This comprehensive review aims to explain the disease pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management options. Methods A review was carried out in the following databases: Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane. The following terms were used alone and combined: Retrograde, Cricopharyngeus muscle, Dysfunction, Abelchia, and inability to burp. Results A total of 68 articles were identified, and only 11 were found to be relevant and included in writing this review. Retrograde cricopharyngeal dysfunction (R‐CPD) is a relatively new disease entity that has recently been described in clinical literature. It is caused by the inability of the cricopharyngeus muscle to relax. Unlike cricopharyngeal dysfunction (CPD), which is well‐known and characterized by dysphagia, R‐CPD is characterized by the inability to belch in almost all patients, which is considered diagnostic for the condition. Conclusions High‐resolution manometry (HRM) is the definitive diagnostic modality. Most patients reported in the literature responded well to treatment with botulinum toxin injection. Key Points   Retrograde cricopharyngeal (R‐CPD) dysfunction is a newly described condition. The inability to belch is the most common symptom. High‐resolution manometry (HRM) provides the most accurate diagnostic information. Botulinum toxin injection is an effective treatment.