Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 14, 2025

Adapting Human Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study Methods to Detect and Characterize Dysphagia in Murine Disease Models
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Adapting Human Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study Methods to Detect and Characterize Dysphagia in Murine Disease Models

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Thickening liquids for pediatric dysphagia: a perspective from clinical practice

Karen van Hulst1, Esther van Ijken2, Leonie van Vliet3

  • 1Department of Rehabilitation, Amalia Children's Hospital, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

Postgraduate Medicine
|February 3, 2025
PubMed

Insights

A novel thickener effectively manages pediatric dysphagia, improving swallowing safety and nutritional intake in infants and children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. This approach enhances overall well-being by preventing complications like aspiration pneumonia.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Speech-Language Pathology
  • Pediatric Nutrition

Background:

  • Dysphagia is prevalent in infants and young children, especially those with neurodevelopmental disabilities.
  • Effective management of pediatric dysphagia necessitates individualized clinical approaches.
  • This report details the use of a locust bean and xanthan gum-based thickener for pediatric dysphagia.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of a locust bean and xanthan gum-based thickener in managing pediatric dysphagia.
  • To demonstrate the benefits of tailored thickening strategies in improving swallowing safety and nutritional intake.
  • To highlight the role of specialized thickeners in preventing aspiration pneumonia and enhancing child well-being.

Main Methods:

  • Case report series detailing the management of four pediatric patients with dysphagia.
  • Utilized a locust bean and xanthan gum-based thickener (ThickenUp® Junior) for liquid modification.
  • Employed individualized treatment plans developed by a multidisciplinary team.

Main Results:

  • The thickener provided stable consistency and maintained liquid taste.
  • Successful management of dysphagia symptoms, including improved swallowing safety and oral control.
  • Prevention of aspiration pneumonia and maintenance of adequate nutritional intake were observed.

Conclusions:

  • Locust bean and xanthan gum-based thickeners are effective for pediatric dysphagia management.
  • These agents improve swallowing, oral control, and nutritional intake, enhancing children's well-being.
  • Individualized, multidisciplinary approaches are crucial for effective dysphagia treatment in children.
Abstract

Keywords:
Dysphagiaaspirationclinical practicepediatricsthickening agents

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