Speech Language Pathology Graduate Student RUSH University La Grange, Illinois, United States
Disclosure(s):
Margaret C. Devitt, n/a: No financial or non-financial relationships to disclose
Abstract: Abstract of Patient A: Patient A is female in her late 60s with PMHx of SPSD, cerebral palsy, chronic subdural hematoma, and cervical stenosis. Admitted to RUMC for worsening muscle spasms and stiffness. Was identified to have dysarthria and dysphagia. Treatment involved benzodiazepines, baclofen, IVIg, and dysphagia Tx.
Keywords: Stiff Person Spectrum Disorder (SPSD) Dysphagia Dysarthria Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) Symptomatic and Immunologic Interventions
Summary of Presentation : This presentation provides an overview of Stiff Person Spectrum Disorder (SPSD), including its wide range of clinical features and phenotypes. Common symptoms of SPSD include muscle rigidity and spasms but can also symptoms such as dysphagia and dysarthria. Treatments for SPSD usually include symptomatic or immunologic interventions, which can increase the likelihood of dysarthria and dysphagia. Since SPSD can have a major impact on quality of life and activities of daily living, occupational, physical, speech, swallowing, and psychological therapies are involved for symptom management. The crucial role of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in managing these symptoms is emphasized, including their expertise in assessing swallowing and speech abilities, creating personalized treatment plans for improved muscle control and communication, and providing education to individuals, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Additionally, there is the importance of collaboration with the medical team and staying informed about relevant disorders and medications to ensure the highest quality of care for these patients. Ultimately, SLP interventions can lead to improved swallowing function, enhanced speech intelligibility, and an overall enhancement of quality of life for individuals with SPSD.
Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
Upon completion, participants will be able to distinguish the wide variety of the clinical features and phenotypes in Stiff Person Spectrum Disorder (SPSD).
Upon completion, participants will be able to recognize the manifestations and impact of dysphagia and dysarthria on SPSD, and the potential effect medications have on these symptoms.
Upon completion, participants will be able to defend the vital role of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in managing dysphagia and dysarthria in SPSD
