1.   The presence or absence of reflux symptoms was not used as a selection criterion for asthmatics.

2.   We attempted to avoid this bias by offering endoscopy to every asthmatic patient regardless of the presence or absence of reflux symptoms.

3.   In addition, we eliminated from the study all patients who were referred because of reflux symptoms even though they had asthma.

4.   Reflux symptoms were the main reason for unsatisfactory grades.

5.   Oesophageal sensitivity to acid was preserved in patients with impaired peristalsis and oesophagitis.

6.   Reflux symptoms lasted longer in patients with prolonged oesophageal acid exposure but were still reported for a small fraction of the total acid exposure time.

7.   Thus, reflux symptoms reflect poorly prolonged exposure of the oesophagus to acid and are not a reliable guide to acid injury of the oesophagus in PSS.