SALIVARY DYSFUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS IS A PRECONDITION FOR OCCURENCE OF GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX DISEASE

In this article the author analysed the salivary dysfunction in patients with ankylosing spondylitis. The author gives own clinical experiences (71 cases). Salivary failure was observed in these patients. It was accompanied by a decrease in protein level in saliva. These changes lead to a decrease in the protective function of saliva on the esophageal mucosa and create conditions for gastroesophageal reflux disease.