Evolution of self-perceived swallowing function, tongue strength and swallow-related quality of life during radiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients.

Abstract

Radiation-associated-dysphagia is a serious side effect of radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC). Seventy-six patients had a weekly prospective follow-up from baseline until one week post-RT. Combined mixed model analysis (n = 43) determined the evolution of self-perceived swallowing function, isometric tongue strength (MIP), tongue strength (TS) during swallowing (Pswal), and quality of life (QoL) in these patients during RT. Swallowing deteriorated from the third week on, resulting in an increase of tube dependency from 10% at baseline toward 31% post-RT. Both MIP and Pswal are reduced, with anterior MIP decreasing in 29% of patients and posterior MIP in 17%. Pswal decreases for saliva and a bolus swallow. All QoL subscales except "sleep" were affected during RT. Self-perceived swallowing function, TS and QoL decrease during RT for HNC. Current findings highlight the need for early monitoring of these parameters.