Background: Biliary reflux secondary to cholecystectomy or endoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) is a late condition commonly encountered among patients referred for gastroenterological management. It has been recognized as part of the post-cholecystectomy syndrome, but it also occurs long time after endoscopic biliary clearance through endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Dysgeusia may be a leading symptom in patients with biliary reflux. Materials and methods: Our study aimed at assessing the presence of dysgeusia among patients with biliary reflux secondary to either cholecystectomy or ERCP and ES, comparatively with a group of control patients diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). 47 patients were included in the study over 6 months: 14 patients diagnosed with post-cholecystectomy syndrome, 16 patients evaluated 1 year after ERCP and ES and 17 controls diagnosed with NAFLD. Presence of dysgeusia was determined by an open questionnaire. Results and discussion: Statistically significant differences were observed among the study groups and controls. Dysgeusia was a condition more frequently encountered in both study groups, compared to NAFLD patients. Nevertheless, there are no significant differences between the two study groups as to the presence of such symptom. Conclusions: Dysgeusia may be regarded as a common symptom associated with biliary reflux, so that it may be considered a potential late complication of ERCP and cholecystectomy.
Keywords:- biliary reflux
- endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
- medical complications.
- post-cholecystectomy syndrome