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Updated: Jun 15, 2026
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Real-Time Fluorescent Measurement of Synaptic Functions in Models of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Published on: July 16, 2021
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How Do Quantitative Videofluoroscopy Measures Differ Between People With Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and
Pooja Gandhi1,2, Ashley A Waito1,2,3, Melanie Peladeau-Pigeon1
1Swallowing Rehabilitation Research Laboratory, KITE Research Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Swallowing difficulties in people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) are partly due to aging, not just the disease. This study compared swallowing in people with ALS and healthy controls to identify age-related changes.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Gastroenterology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Dysphagia is a significant complication for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
- Previous swallowing studies in ALS often overlook the impact of aging.
- Understanding age-related swallowing changes is crucial for accurate ALS patient assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare swallowing function in people with ALS (PwALS) and age/sex-matched controls.
- To differentiate disease-specific swallowing alterations from age-related changes.
- To establish typical and atypical swallowing parameters using healthy reference data.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) data from 19 PwALS and healthy controls.
- VFSS data analyzed using the ASPEKT method for 16 quantitative parameters across various barium consistencies.
- Statistical comparison using Mann-Whitney U tests and odds ratios for atypical swallowing values.
Main Results:
- PwALS exhibited more frequent multiple swallows, incomplete laryngeal closure, and reduced hyoid speed.
- Similar rates of atypical pharyngeal constriction and residue in both groups suggest age-related contributions.
- Age-related changes may explain some observed swallowing abnormalities in PwALS.
Conclusions:
- Aging contributes to some swallowing impairments observed in people with ALS.
- Distinguishing ALS-specific effects from age-related changes is essential for patient management.
- Further longitudinal studies are recommended to track swallowing changes over ALS progression.
