[Palatal myoclonus and dysphagia]

Abstract

Introduction: Post brainstem lesion dysphagia is frequently associated with palatal myoclonus (PM) but the correlation between these two symptoms is still unclear.

Objective: The aim of this study was to verify the relationship between PM and dysphagia, and if PM could itself induce dysphagia.

Patients and methods: Twelve patients suffering from post brainstem lesion PM and dysphagia; 10 male and two female, mean aged of 50.5 years, were assessed using clinical examination, radiological and endoscopic examination of deglutition.

Results: In three cases, PM were associated with pharyngeal area decreasing, laryngeal aspiration, and dysphagia.

Discussion: This study confirms the hypothesis of close relationship between PM and dysphagia. In these cases, specific dysphagia therapy should be recommended.

Conclusion: Post brainstem lesion dysphagia is sometimes associated with PM and in some cases, there is probably a relationship between PM and swallowing disorders of these patients.