Laryngeal clefts in Prader-Willi syndrome: Feeding difficulties and aspiration not always caused by hypotonia

Minna L Rodrigo1, Christine Heubi2,3, Eric Chiou4

  • 1Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

Insights

Feeding difficulties in Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) may be linked to laryngeal clefts, not just hypotonia. Early identification of airway anomalies is crucial for infants with PWS experiencing swallowing issues.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Genetics
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Infants with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) frequently exhibit feeding difficulties, aspiration, and failure to thrive, often attributed to hypotonia.
  • The role of other potential contributing factors, such as airway anomalies, in PWS-related feeding issues requires further investigation.

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