Validation of an Italian tool for assessing swallowing disorders in neurodegenerative diseases

Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation of the Italian Version of the Clinical Assessment of Dysphagia in Neurodegeneration (CADN)

Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA · NCT05733494

This study is testing a new Italian tool to help doctors better identify and manage swallowing problems in people with neurodegenerative diseases.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment101 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIstituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri SpA (other)
Locations1 site (Milan, Milano)
Trial IDNCT05733494 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to translate and validate the Italian version of the Clinical Assessment of Dysphagia in Neurodegeneration (CADN), a tool designed to assess swallowing disorders in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. The study will involve a two-phase process: first, forward and back translation of the assessment tool, followed by a validation process to ensure its psychometric properties are robust. By establishing a validated tool in Italian, the study seeks to enhance early detection and management of dysphagia in this patient population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults over 18 years old diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease who can provide informed consent and follow simple instructions.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of stroke, head or neck surgery, recent radiotherapy, or dysphagia from other known causes may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a reliable assessment tool for early detection of dysphagia, improving patient care and outcomes in neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the English version of the CADN has shown success, this specific validation for the Italian population is a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of neurodegenerative disease according to the respective consensus criteria
* \>18 years old
* able to provide informed consent
* able to follow simple instructions
* capable of sitting upright for anamnesis and examination for at least 20 min (in chair or wheelchair)

Exclusion Criteria:

* history of stroke
* surgery to the head or neck
* radiotherapy in the last 12 months
* dysphagia resulting from other known causes

Where this trial is running

Milan, Milano

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Swallowing Disorder, Dysphagia, Neuro-Degenerative Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.