Objective: We investigated the swallowing sound index analyzed using an electronic stethoscope with artificial intelligence (AI) corresponds to the severity of Parkinson’s disease.(PD).
Background: Several simple, noninvasive tools, such as tongue pressure measurement and cough tests, are available to assess swallowing disorders. The electronic stethoscope-based AI analysis, with potential telemedicine applications, includes the swallowing sound index, which is lower in PD patients than in healthy individuals. In severe PD, swallowing dysfunction and aspiration pneumonia are critical issues. However, the relationship between disease severity and swallowing function, crucial for effective intervention, has not been sufficiently studied.
Method: In this cross-sectional study, swallowing sounds in PD patients were recorded using an electronic stethoscope, and an index was calculated using AI. Additionally, tongue pressure measurement and 1% citric acid cough test were performed. Patients were classified as mild if they were at Hoehn and Yahr stages 3 or below, and as severe if they were at stage 4 or higher. Then, two groups were compared.
Results: A total of 36 patients were enrolled (age: 71.2 ± 9.2 years, 11 females). The swallowing sound index was 0.322 ± 0.100, tongue pressure was 25.1 ± 11.3, and 29 patients (80.6%) had abnormal cough test results. Compared by severity, the swallowing sound index was significantly lower in patients with severe PD compared to those with mild PD (P<0.001). On the other hand, tongue pressure and the cough test showed no significant correlation with severity.
Conclusion: A reduced swallowing sound index in patients with PD suggests a potential association between swallowing dysfunction and an increased risk of aspiration pneumonia. These findings highlight the importance of intensive evaluation and intervention for swallowing disorders in PD patients.
To cite this abstract in AMA style:
R. Matsuyama, M. Nakamori, Y. Shimizu, O. Kikumoto, H. Maruyama. Swallowing sound index analysis using electronic stethoscope and artificial intelligence for patients with Parkinson’s disease [abstract]. Mov Disord. 2025; 40 (suppl 1). https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/swallowing-sound-index-analysis-using-electronic-stethoscope-and-artificial-intelligence-for-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/. Accessed October 22, 2026.« Back to 2025 International Congress
MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/swallowing-sound-index-analysis-using-electronic-stethoscope-and-artificial-intelligence-for-patients-with-parkinsons-disease/