Figure 2.

Summary algorithm resulting from the statements where agreement was reached.

The number between brackets refers to the statements from which the algorithm was built. Referral to a specific specialist must not preclude referral to other specialists if different pathologies co-exist or are suspected in the same patient. Referral pathways are subjected to accessibility to each specialist in the different healthcare systems. ENT, ear, nose, and throat specialist; GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease.