Bulbar palsy results from bilateral impairment of function of the IXth, Xth and XIIth cranial nerves. This gives rise to dysarthria, dysphagia (often with choking episodes and nasal regurgitation of fluids), dysphonia and poor cough, and susceptibility to aspiration pneumonia. The lowermost part of VII may, infrequently, be involved.
The disturbance is of the motor nuclei rather than of the corticobulbar tracts. It is distinguished from pseudobulbar palsy by the presence of lower motor neurone signs. Autonomic features are uncommon.
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