Observational Study to Systematically Assess Throat and Swallowing Function in Adults with Neurodegenerative Diseases

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to systematically record the results of routine laryngeal examinations and specific swallowing difficulties in patients with various neurodegenerative diseases such as Multiple System Atrophy MSA, Progressive Supranuclear Palsy PSP, Parkinsons Disease, Motor Neuron Disease MND, and other related conditions. These disorders often lead to swallowing problems known as dysphagia, which can cause serious complications like dehydration, malnutrition, and pneumonia. The study seeks to better understand how these swallowing issues vary with different disease types and stages. Participants undergo a fiberoptic or flexible endoscopic evaluation of swallowing FEES using a structured task protocol designed to assess laryngopharyngeal function. When available, laryngeal electromyography EMG results are also collected. The study includes patients diagnosed according to established diagnostic criteria for their specific neurodegenerative disorder. Data collected also include demographic information and disease-specific details, along with responses to two questionnaires assessing swallowing disturbances and quality of life related to swallowing. During the study, participants will have their swallowing function assessed through FEES and complete questionnaires about their swallowing difficulties and quality of life. Researchers will evaluate laryngeal movement disorders and dysphagia as primary outcomes. This observational study does not involve any treatment intervention and aims to follow participants over time to categorize swallowing issues and correlate them with their disease subtype. The study has been ongoing since 2017 and plans to continue recruitment and data collection through 2028.

Systematic Assessment of Laryngopharyngeal Function in Patients With Neurodegenerative Diseases