Algorithm for the Evaluation of Dysphagia:Oropharyngeal: - Characterized by difficulty initiating swallowing and accompanied by choking/coughing, nasopharyngeal regurgitation or aspiration. - Involved anatomy: Tongue, muscles of mastication, soft palate (elevation to close nasopharynx), suprahyoid muscles (elevate larynx), epiglottis (occlude airway), cricopharyngeus muscle (release upper esophageal sphincter). Neurological control predominantly coordinated by cranial nerves (V, VII, IX, X, XII) Esophageal: - Delayed after initiating swallowing and characterized by a sensation of food bolus arresting in transit. Involved anatomy: Skeletal and smooth muscle along the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter. Neurological control predominantly coordinated by medulla #Diagnosis #Differential #EM #GI #Dysphagia #Oropharyngeal #Esophageal #Neuromuscular #Anatomic #Intraluminal #Extraluminal #Algorithm #Differential #Ddxof
