DIAGNOSTIC-APPROACH FOR DYSPHAGIA FROM AN OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGIC POINT-OF-VIEW

The diagnostic procedure for the symptom oropharyngeal dysphagia is described from an otorhinolaryngologic point of view, with emphasis on an interdisciplinary team approach. The various methods used in modern otorhinolaryngology both by the practioner and the clinician are discussed with regard to a step-like diagnostic approach. The diagnosis should be made on the basis of aetiology, anatomy and function. First all organic changes causing oropharyngeal dysphagia must be recognized, both <<typical ENT diseases>> and malignant tumors of the oropharynx and hypopharynx which are usually diagnosed only in an advanced stage. If there is no evidence of an organic cause in the field of otorhinolaryngology, as a differential diagnosis a dysfunction of the upper esophageal sphincter and a <<globus pharyngis>> have to be ruled out.