Feeding and swallowing problems in children with complex care needs: CHARGE syndrome
Elisabetta Sforza, Giuseppe Zampino, Antonella Cerchiari
Since the 80s there has been an increase in the number of children with chronic diseases and syndromes with complex care needs. Children with genetic syndromes usually present feeding problems and swallowing disorders as a result of complex interactions between anatomical, medical, physiological and behavioural factors, requiring a multidisciplinary approach and integrated management. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and nature of these difficulties and to analyse the correlation between the major and minor clinical features of the syndrome and the degree of dysfunction of swallowing skills. Clinical assessment and rehabilitation reasoning of the young CHARGE patient does not require use of standardised protocols, but it must be based on data such as those shown in this study. Knowing the reasons and consequences of the feeding and swallowing disorders in the CHARGE syndrome, as well as in other rare diseases, is paramount when drafting a detailed assessment of the child. It is itself an accurate source of information when choosing the right and most effective rehabilitation method.
Keywords
Paediatric dysphagia, CHARGE syndrome, Multidisciplinary management.