Predictive factors for masticatory performance in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Van Bruggen HW, van de Engel-Hoek L, Steenks MH, Bronkhorst E, Creugers NHJ, de Groot IJM, Kalaykova SI.
Neuromuscul Disord. 2014. 24(8):684-92.
Patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) report masticatory and swallowing problems. Authors investigated whether masticatory performance in DMD is objectively impaired and explored predictive factors for compromised mastication.
Twenty-three patients and 23 controls filled out two questionnaires about mandibular function, and underwent a clinical examination of the masticatory system and measurements of anterior bite force and masticatory performance. In the patients, moreover, quantitative ultrasound of the tongue and MFM was performed.
Masticatory performance, anterior bite force and occlusal contacts were all reduced in the patient group compared to the controls. Mastication abnormalities were present early in the disease process prior to a reduction of MFM. Stage of the disease was the strongest independent risk factor for the masticatory performance.

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Keywords: Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Masticatory system, Masticatory performance, Bite force