Diagnosis and treatment of bulbar symptoms in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common neurodegenerative disease of the motor system. Bulbar symptoms such as dysphagia and dysarthria are frequent features of ALS and can result in reductions in life expectancy and quality of life. These dysfunctions are assessed by clinical examination and by use of instrumented methods such as fiberendoscopic evaluation of swallowing and videofluoroscopy. Laryngospasm, another well-known complication of ALS, commonly comes to light during intubation and extubation procedures in patients undergoing surgery. Laryngeal and pharyngeal complications are treated by use of an array of measures, including body positioning, compensatory techniques, voice and breathing exercises, communication devices, dietary modifications, various safety strategies, and neuropsychological assistance. Meticulous monitoring of clinical symptoms and close cooperation within a multidisciplinary team (physicians, speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, caregivers, the patients and their relatives) are vital.
Kühnlein
Peter
P
Department of Neurology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany.
Gdynia
Hans-Jürgen
HJ
Sperfeld
Anne-Dorte
AD
Lindner-Pfleghar
Beate
B
Ludolph
Albert Christian
AC
Prosiegel
Mario
M
Riecker
Axel
A
D000690:Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy*; D010244:Bulbar Palsy, Progressive / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D004401:Dysarthria / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D013064:Speech Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome