Posture-Dependent Dysphagia After Botulinum Toxin Type A Injection at Sternocleidomastoid in a Patient With Athetoid Cerebral Palsy

Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2018 Jun;97(6):e51-e54. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000000763.

Abstract

Cervical dystonia is a common issue in patients with athetoid cerebral palsy. Botulinum toxin injection to dystonic cervical muscles is a well-recognized treatment option, but it is known to be associated with dysphagia. Previously reported cases of dysphagia after botulinum toxin injection to the sternocleidomastoid muscle were related to the regional spread of toxin to the pharyngeal muscles. We report a unique case of posture-dependent dysphagia due to preactivation of the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles to compensate for impaired head stabilization by the weakened sternocleidomastoid muscle while swallowing. This case suggests a possible mechanism of dysphagia in patients with athetoid cerebral palsy.

Publication types

  • Classical Article

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Botulinum Toxins / administration & dosage
  • Botulinum Toxins / adverse effects*
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / administration & dosage
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / adverse effects*
  • Cerebral Palsy / drug therapy*
  • Deglutition Disorders / chemically induced*
  • Deglutition Disorders / diagnostic imaging
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neck Muscles / diagnostic imaging
  • Pharyngeal Muscles / diagnostic imaging
  • Posture*

Substances

  • Botulinum Toxins
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A