Aspiration pneumonia. A threat when deglutition is compromised
Khawaja, I.T.; Buffa, S.D.; Brandstetter, R.D.
Postgraduate Medicine 92(1): 165-8 173-7 181
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0032-5481 PMID: 1614930 Document Number: 394143
Aspiration results from abnormal structure or from dysfunction during the oral, pharyngeal, or esophageal stage of deglutition. Chemically induced inflammation of the lungs and obstruction of the airways may ensue. Feeding and swallowing problems may occur at any age, but they are particularly prevalent in the elderly, and the morbidity and mortality that result from impaired oral intake are now recognized as a major geriatric problem. Aspiration pneumonitis and/or pneumonia has a high morbidity and mortality rate. Medical management is mainly aimed at supportive care with the hope of resolution over time. Complications demand aggressive measures. Prevention of aspiration is apt to be more rewarding than treatment of consequences. All predisposing factors should be carefully assessed by the physician and modified whenever possible.