Correlation between voice intensity and swallowing function in subjects with Parkinson's disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Otolaryngology

Background:

• Parkinson's Disease (PD) is characterized by reduced voice intensity and dysphagia.
• Voice production and swallowing share intertwined neurological and structural pathways.
• Early identification of swallowing disorders is crucial to prevent severe complications like malnutrition and pneumonia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between voice intensity and swallowing function in individuals with PD.
• To determine if voice analysis can predict swallowing impairment in PD patients.

Main Methods:

• 30 participants with PD were assessed for motor disability using the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III.
• Voice intensity was measured using PRAAT software.
• Swallowing function was evaluated via videofluoroscopy using the Penetration Aspiration Scale, Dysphagia Outcome Severity Scale, and Videofluoroscopic Dysphagia Scale.

Main Results:

• A significant correlation was found between voice intensity and swallowing function; decreased voice intensity correlated with poorer swallowing.
• Swallowing impairment was 56 times more likely in PD patients with voice intensity below 60 dB.
• The positive predictive value for dysphagia when voice intensity was below 60 dB was 93%.

Conclusions:

• Reduced voice intensity serves as an indicator of increased risk for swallowing dysfunction in PD.
• Instrumental voice analysis is a non-invasive, cost-effective tool for identifying PD patients who require swallowing assessments.
• Timely intervention based on voice analysis can aid in managing dysphagia and reducing associated complications.