Role of Otolaryngology in Monitoring the Progression of Myotonic Dystrophy: A Case Report

Myotonic dystrophy is a systemic condition with the involvement of the neuromuscular, cardiac, and gastrointestinal systems. Otolaryngology has an underrecognized yet critical role in the longitudinal management of myotonic dystrophy, given the impact on swallowing, voice, and airway management. This case is of a 42-year-old male with genetically confirmed myotonic dystrophy type one. The patient presented with complaints of dysphagia, voice changes, and hand weakness. Though this patient's workup primarily focused on internal medicine and gastroenterology, these quality-of-life complaints highlight a realm where otolaryngology monitoring and evaluation can contribute to early recognition and management of aspiration risk, vocal dysfunction, airway management, and sleep apnea, ultimately improving quality of life. This shows the value of a multidisciplinary team, including otolaryngology, in promoting the overall health and quality-of-life goals of patients with myotonic dystrophy.