Developing a core outcome set for dysphagia interventions in Parkinson's disease: an international Delphi consensus...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Clinical Trials
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Oropharyngeal dysphagia is a common and debilitating symptom in Parkinson's disease.
• Standardized outcome measurement is lacking in clinical trials for Parkinson's disease dysphagia.
• A consensus-driven core outcome set (COS) is needed to improve research comparability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a COS for oropharyngeal dysphagia interventions in Parkinson's disease.
• To agree on core outcomes, their definitions, and measurement instruments.
• To ensure relevance and consistency in outcome assessment for future studies.

Main Methods:

• International online Delphi survey with key stakeholders.
• Consensus meetings to finalize core outcomes and measurement parameters.
• Utilized a multi-stage process involving participants with Parkinson's disease, caregivers, and clinicians.

Main Results:

• Six core outcomes were identified: penetration/aspiration, aspiration pneumonia, choking, dysphagia severity, quality of life, and pharyngeal residue.
• Consensus was reached on definitions and measurement instruments for these outcomes.
• 90 participants from 21 countries contributed to the Delphi survey.

Conclusions:

• The developed COS will standardize outcome reporting in Parkinson's disease dysphagia trials.
• Facilitates comparative effectiveness research and enhances the evidence base for interventions.
• Ensures that research outcomes are meaningful to patients, clinicians, and researchers.