“GeFest” questionnaire: New diagnostic options for GERD and functional dyspepsia

Introduction. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and functional dyspepsia (FD) are the most common diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract (GIT). According to the literature, the prevalence of GERD in the world is 5–25%, in Russia – from 12% to 24%. Symptoms of GERD in patients with FD are observed in 1.6–8% of cases, and in some studies – up to 37%. FD is found in approximately 20% of the population. Dyspepsia syndrome is present in approximately 40% of patients with GERD.

Aim. To develop the “GeFest” questionnaire to identify isolated and combined forms of GERD and FD, and to evaluate its sensitivity, specificity, and application conveniences.

Materials and methods. 208 patients (67 men and 141 women) aged 18–65 years participated in the observational study. Participants completed the “GeFest” questionnaire daily for 7 days. Patients underwent laboratory and instrumental examinations, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGDS) and 24-hour pH-impedancemetry of the upper gastrointestinal tract. The validity of the developed questionnaire was determined by comparing the questionnaire and examination results.

Results. The study demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity of the questionnaire (90–100%). The questionnaire effectively identified isolated and combined forms of GERD and FD. Study participants spent approximately 1 minute completing the questionnaire. Physicians and patients highly rated the questionnaire’s ease of use.

Conclusions. The “GeFest” questionnaire is an effective and reliable tool for the diagnosis and dynamic monitoring of GERD and FD. Use of the questionnaire can help reduce the cost of diagnosing these upper gastrointestinal diseases, including combined forms, reduce the need for invasive procedures, and facilitate the selection of drug therapy.

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