Dysphagia in Parkinson Disease: Part II —Current Treatment Options and Insights from Animal Research

AbstractPurpose of ReviewDysphagia is highly prevalent in Parkinson disease (PD) but is not typically identified nor treated until later in the disease process. This review summarizes current pharmacological, surgical, and behavioral treatments for PD-associated dysphagia and contributions from translational animal research.Recent FindingsSwallowing is a complex physiologic process controlled by multiple brain regions and neurotransmitter systems. As such, interventions that target nigrostriatal dopamine dysfunction have limited or detrimental effects on swallowing outcomes. Behavioral interventions can help target PD-associated dysphagia inmid-to-late stages. Animal research is necessary to refine treatments and useful in studyingprodromal dysphagia.SummaryDysphagia is an early, common, and debilitating sign of PD. Current pharmacological and surgical interventions are not effective in ameliorating swallowing dysfunction; behavioral intervention remains the most effective approach for dysphagia treatment. Animal research has advanced our understanding of mechanisms underlying PD and PD-associated dysphagia, and continues to show translational promise for the study of dysphagia treatment options.
Source: Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports - Category: Rehabilitation Source Type: research