Dysphagia was present in 2 subjects based on PAS score, and in 3 subjects based on DIGEST scores. Although EAT-10 was abnormal in 4 out of 5 subjects, the results did not correspond to objective findings on VFSS. Similarly, VFSS results did not correspond with other clinical metrics including pulmonary function testing, EAT-10 or IOPI. Four subjects received interventions or dietary modifications based on VFSS results. Our study is limited by the small sample.
CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Dysphagia can be seen in FRDA regardless of respiratory or functional testing results. VFSS or fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) can be considered as an objective tool for evaluation of swallowing in this population. Further research is needed to identify risk factors, correlation with other clinical metrics and outcomes.
