Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 8, 2025

Adapting Human Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study Methods to Detect and Characterize Dysphagia in Murine Disease Models
Published on: March 1, 2015
Death by Chocolate: The Palliative Management of Dysphagia
Amanda Warren1, Mary K Buss2,3
1Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Emerson College, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Abstract:
Among patients seen by palliative care, dysphagia is prevalent and can lead to disturbing symptoms and challenges in medical decisions for patients and families. Our patient, AP, an 88-year-old woman with a history of thyroid cancer and esophageal dysmotility, was nearing end of life. She wanted nothing more than to eat her chocolate cake in peace. This shocked her family and also presented multiple ethical and logistical issues for the medical team caring for her during an acute admission for hypoxia. This case presents an opportunity to: review strategies for evaluating and diagnosing dysphagia; appraise evidenced based approach to the palliative management of dysphagia; and promote the education of families and staff regarding palliative options for care. Palliative care professionals can be instrumental in educating patients, families, other clinicians, including swallowing therapists, on how to enhance comfort and quality of life among patients with dysphagia.
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