Screening test is for dysphagia in the elderly

Abstract

In screening tests for dysphagia conducted using videoendoscopy in 81 subjects over 75 years old apparent liquid aspiration was found in 26 (32%). In 2 of these 26 saliva aspiration was observed. Logistic analysis of aspiration versus clinical symptoms, including endoscopic findings, showed a significant correlation between aspiration and longer time required for meals, bending forward during swallowing, choking during meals, hypoesthesia of the larynx, delayed swallowing reflex and difficulty in spitting. Results were considered clinically significant although they did not appear to fully agree with those of previous studies. The usefulness of videoendoscopy was confirmed.