ABSTRACT
-The pediatric population with dysphagia is diverse, ranging from premature infants
to fully grown adolescents. A variety of medical conditions cause swallowing disorders
in pediatric patients. Complications of swallowing disorders can have severe and even
fatal consequences. Swallowing disorders have a direct impact on nutrition, and adequate
nutrition is required for growth and development of all body systems in infants and
children. Infants and children may not have the same symptoms and signs as adults
with dysphagia do and learning to identify pediatric patients at risk for dysphagia
is critical. The diagnosis must be thorough and accurate. Furthermore, management
of swallowing disorders and nutrition must be aggressive and immediate because of
the reduced nutritional reserve and high needs of the infant and child. This article
discusses the following three areas for optimal care: identification of infants and
children at risk for dysphagia, diagnostic procedures, and management.
KEYWORD
swallowing - pediatrics - malnutrition
