Electrical Impedance Myography (EIM) and Quantitative Ultrasonography (QUS) Measurements of the Tongue: Biomarkers of Bulbar Dysfunction

Abstract

Many neurological disorders are associated with speech and swallowing abnormalities. In turn, oropharyngeal dysfunction can negatively impact quality of life and survival. Reliable tools that quantify underlying motor deficits are needed for use in clinical care and therapeutic trials. As painless, non-invasive techniques, electrical impedance myography (EIM) and quantitative ultrasonography (QUS) are well-suited to provide biomarker data. Both of these user-friendly methods can provide sensitive indicators of disease status when applied to the limbs; existing work suggests that the examination of orofacial muscles could add valuable information. This document explores the role of EIM and QUS in evaluating tongue health and bulbar dysfunction in patients with neuromuscular conditions.