Esophageal manometry and Bernstein acid perfusion test were performed in 39 patients with globus sensation and 30 controls without experiencing a lump sensation in the throat. Globus patients also underwent physical examination, paranasal sinus x-ray, laryngoscopy and esophagogram. Nine of 39 patients were excluded from the study because local reasons for a lump sensation in the throat were found. Globus group showed significant elevation in upper esophageal sphinter pressure(P=0.0001) and six patients(20%) had evidence of nonspecific esophageal motility disorders, which suggested that hypertonicity of the upper esophageal sphinter and esophageal motility disorders could be the cause of globus syndrome.