The DAM Effect: A Case Report on Dysphagia in a Patient with Oculo-Pharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy

Oculo-Pharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy (OPMD) is a rare form of muscular dystrophy typically occurring in individualsover 50. Its primary symptoms include eyelid ptosis, dysphagia and proximal limb weakness. This case report describesthe clinical presentation, challenges and rehabilitation approach for a 61year-old female patient with OPMD. The aim is tohighlight an atypical manifestation of dysphagia, referred by the patient as a “dam effect,” and to emphasize the importanceof a multidisciplinary rehabilitation strategy. Despite the lack of specific guidelines in the literature, this case highlights thefundamental role of personalized treatment in enhancing the patient's quality of life.