[Deglutition disorders in early childhood]

The dysphagia in the newborn or the toddler is not an easy diagnosis, and the degree of anatomic development and neurologic maturation according to the age of the child should be taken into account. Among the investigations, a combined endoscopic examination of both upper digestive tract and airways is mandatory, because of the possible association with simultaneous malformations or recurrent aspirations. The management is a multidisciplinary one. In case of a chronic long lasting underlying disease, the treatment goals must be realistic and periodically reassessed. The parents should always be included in the treatment.