Botulinum toxin improves dysphagia associated with multiple sclerosis.

Authors :: Restivo DA
Marchese-Ragona R
Patti F
Solaro C
Maimone D
Zappalá G
Pavone A
Source :: European journal of neurology [Eur J Neurol] 2011 Mar; Vol. 18 (3), pp. 486-90. Date of Electronic Publication: 2010 Aug 22.
Publication Year :: 2011
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) for severe oro-pharyngeal dysphagia associated with multiple sclerosis (MS).<br />Patients and Methods: BoNT/A was injected percutaneously into the hyperactive cricopharyngeal muscle of 14 dysphagic MS patients under electromyographic control. Patients were evaluated by videofluoroscopic and electromyographic examinations and by the Penetration/Aspiration Scale (PAS), at week 1, 4, 12, 16, 18, and 24 after BoNT/A injection.<br />Results: All patients showed a significant improvement in all the swallowing outcome measures.<br />Conclusion: No specific treatment for oro-pharyngeal dysphagia related to MS has been described to date. Our preliminary findings suggest a potential benefit from BoNT/A treatment in MS patients with dysphagia associated with upper esophageal sphincter hyperactivity.<br /> (© 2010 The Author(s). European Journal of Neurology © 2010 EFNS.)