Regurgitation in neonates is related to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter.

• A. Regurgitation in neonates is related to relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter
• B. Regurgitation in neonates is due to asthma
• C. Regurgitation in neonates is caused by GERD later in life
• D. Regurgitation in neonates is irrelevant to LES

Answer: (A)

Regurgitation in neonates mainly reflects immature LES function, with reduced resting tone and frequent transient relaxations of the lower esophageal sphincter. When the LES relaxes, gastric contents can move back up into the esophagus and sometimes out as spit-up. This is common in healthy newborns and is usually a benign, physiologic reflux that improves as the LES matures and feeding patterns stabilize.

This differs from GERD, which involves troublesome reflux with symptoms or complications (poor weight gain, feeding aversion, respiratory symptoms, etc.). Asthma isn’t the primary mechanism for neonatal regurgitation, and saying the LES is irrelevant ignores the biology of why reflux occurs in these infants. So the best statement captures that regurgitation at this age is tied to relaxation and immature function of the LES.