Using Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy for the Treatment of Sialorrhea in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disorder of motor neurons affecting >12,000 patients in the United States,1 with bulbar-onset ALS presenting with difficulty speaking and/or swallowing.2,3 Sialorrhea (excessive salivation) affects approximately 80% of patients with ALS who exhibit an inability to seal their lips and suffer from a decreased coordination of the palato-lingual and/or oro-facial muscles. These symptoms lead to constant drooling, contributing to the serious risk of aspiration pneumonia and limiting the use of invasive ventilation.