Pneumonia in Parkinson's disease: barium aspiration in videofluoroscopic swallowing study

This is an excellent teaching image for daily clinical practice. Barium aspiration into tracheobronchial tree is a remarkable warning sign of dysphagia ‐related aspiration pneumonia. In patients with aspiration pneumonia, a thorough swallowing function assessment shall be considered. Also, along with clinical assessment, videofluoroscopic swallowing study is a good add‐on tool for dysphagia treatment plan and shared decision‐making for nasoga stric tube placement to patients and their caregivers. Owing to atypical presentation in patients with Parkinson's disease, dysphagia is often overlooked. Therefore, extra attention should be paid. Key messageBarium aspiration into the tracheobronchial tree is a remarkable warning sign of dysphagia ‐related aspiration pneumonia. Clinical swallowing assessment is warranted for patients with aspiration pneumonia and videofluoroscopic swallowing study is a good add‐on tool for dysphagia treatment plan. In patients with Parkinson's disease, dysphagia is often overlooked due to atypical present ations.
Source: Respirology Case Reports - Category: Respiratory Medicine Authors: Tags: Clinical Image Source Type: research