Analysis of resting salivation rate in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis using tracheostomy invasive...

Patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) often suffer from salivation problems such as drooling and dry mouth. We examined resting salivation rate cross-sectionally in 66 advanced ALS patients with tracheostomy invasive ventilation using a cotton roll method, and investigated clinical factors associated with salivation rate. Resting salivation rate in the patients was well preserved (median value 0.6 g/min), and was significantly more increased in patients with impairment of jaw movement (P = 0.007) or mouth opening (P = 0.003) than in patients with less impairment, and in patients with the mouth being constantly open ≥ 10 mm in rostrocaudal length than in patients with < 10 mm. These data indicate that salivation rate was increased with progression of dysfunction of voluntary jaw movement. Appropriate oral care is required in advanced ALS patients to maintain their oral hygiene and to avoid penetration of saliva into the airway.