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Updated: Jan 31, 2026
A Protocol for Comprehensive Assessment of Bulbar Dysfunction in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis ALS
Published on: February 21, 2011
Provisional best practices guidelines for the evaluation of bulbar dysfunction in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Gary L Pattee1, Emily K Plowman2, Kendrea L Focht Garand3
1Neurology Associates P.C, Lincoln, NE, U.S.A.
Introduction:
Universally established comprehensive clinical bulbar scales objectively assessing disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are currently lacking. The goal of this working group project is to design a best practice set of provisional bulbar ALS guidelines, available for immediate implementation within all ALS clinics.
Methods:
ALS specialists across multiple related disciplines participated in a series of clinical bulbar symposia, intending to identify and summarize the currently accepted best practices for the assessment and management of bulbar dysfunction in ALS Results: Summary group recommendations for individual speech, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and swallowing sections were achieved, focusing on the optimal proposed level of care within each domain.
Discussion:
We have identified specific clinical recommendations for each of the 3 domains of bulbar functioning, available for incorporation within all ALS clinics. Future directions will be to establish a formal set of bulbar guidelines through a methodological and evidence-based approach. Muscle Nerve 59:531-531, 2019.
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