Evolution of self-perceived swallowing function, tongue strength and swallow-related quality of life during radiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients.

BACKGROUND: Radiation-associated-dysphagia is a serious side effect of radiotherapy (RT) for head and neck cancer (HNC). METHODS: Seventy-six patients had a weekly prospective follow-up from baseline until one week post-RT. Combined mixed model analysis (n = 43) determined the evolution of self-perceived swallowing function, isometric tongue strength (MIP), tongue strength (TS) during swallowing (Pswal), and quality of life (QoL) in these patients during RT. RESULTS: Swallowing deteriorated from the third week on, resulting in an increase of tube dependency from 10% at baseline toward 31% post-RT. Both MIP and Pswal are reduced, with anterior MIP decreasing in 29% of patients and posterior MIP in 17%. Pswal decreases for saliva and a bolus swallow. All QoL subscales except "sleep" were affected during RT. CONCLUSIONS: Self-perceived swallowing function, TS and QoL decrease during RT for HNC. Current findings highlight the need for early monitoring of these parameters