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An evidence-based approach to the child who drools saliva

S A Little1, H Kubba, S S M Hussain

  • 1Department of Otolaryngology, Ninewells Hospital & Tayside Children's Hospital, Dundee, UK.

Clinical Otolaryngology : Official Journal of ENT-UK ; Official Journal of Netherlands Society for Oto-Rhino-Laryngology & Cervico-Facial Surgery
|June 18, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Paediatric drooling, or sialorrhea, affects children with cerebral palsy and others, causing social challenges. Treatment progresses from behavioral therapy to medications and surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Pediatric Neurology

Background:

  • Drooling (sialorrhea) is a common issue in children with cerebral palsy, impacting social well-being.
  • It can also affect neurologically healthy children, presenting social challenges for families.

Observation:

  • Literature on pediatric drooling predominantly consists of level III/IV evidence.
  • Therapeutic interventions for drooling are varied.

Findings:

  • Multiple treatment options exist for pediatric drooling.
  • A stepwise approach is recommended, starting with behavioral therapy.

Implications:

  • Pharmacotherapy and surgical interventions represent later stages in managing drooling.
  • Effective management of pediatric drooling can significantly reduce social handicap.
Abstract

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