[The value of the Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids (TOMASS) in screening for dysphagia and malnutrition].

The Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids (TOMASS) measures the number of bites, chewing cycles, swallows, and the total time required to swallow a standardized saltine cracker. The objective was to evaluate the relevance of TOMASS as a screening tool for dysphagia and malnutrition. This prospective study compared TOMASS results with nutritional status in a group of 30 dysphagic subjects and a control group of 30 matched participants. The TOMASS results (number of chewing cycles, swallows, and total time) were significantly higher in the dysphagic group than in the control group, and in malnourished patients in both groups: higher number of chewing cycles, swallows, and longer total time. Measuring the total TOMASS time has the highest sensitivity and specificity for distinguishing dysphagic subjects from undernourished subjects. However, it is less effective for distinguishing undernourished subjects from dysphagic subjects. In conclusion, our results suggest that measuring the total TOMASS time has acceptable diagnostic performance for screening both for the risk of dysphagia and malnutrition risk.