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Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

Diseases and Conditions Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
Overview Types Causes & Risk Factors Symptoms Preventions Treatment
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Overview

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a rare speech disorder that affects a child’s ability to control their lips, jaws, and tongues during speech. In CAS, the brain struggles to plan and direct the precise movements needed for clear speech. Let’s delve deeper into this condition.

Types of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

CAS can manifest in various ways, but common types include:

  1. Verbal Apraxia: Difficulty coordinating speech sounds, resulting in inconsistent errors while speaking.
  2. Groping Apraxia: Lengthened and disrupted transitions between sounds and syllables.
  3. Prosodic Apraxia: Inappropriate intonation or rhythm during speech.

Causes of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

While the exact cause of CAS remains elusive, several factors may contribute:

  • Genetic Variations: Changes in the FOXP2 gene increase CAS risk.
  • Brain Conditions or Injury: Stroke, infections, or traumatic brain injury may lead to CAS.

Risk Factors of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

Certain conditions increase the likelihood of CAS:

  1. Delayed Language Development: Children with stronger language skills than expressive communication may be at risk.
  2. Fine Motor Difficulties: Trouble with activities like using a straw, drinking from a cup, or processing sensations in the mouth.
  3. Reading and Writing Challenges: CAS may affect reading, spelling, and writing.

Symptoms of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

CAS symptoms vary by age and severity:
1. Babbling Reduction: Children produce fewer vocal sounds than typical between 7 to 12 months of age.
2. Inconsistent Errors: Speech errors vary unpredictably.
3. Transitions Difficulty: Coordinating syllables within words poses challenges.
4. Prosody Issues: Abnormal intonation or rhythm during speech.

Preventions of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

CAS cannot be prevented, but early diagnosis and management are crucial. Seek professional evaluation if you suspect CAS in your child.

Diagnosis of Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

A speech-language pathologist assesses CAS. They consider the child’s history and perform speech and sound assessments. Early intervention is essential for effective treatment.

Treatment for Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)

  • Speech and Language Therapy: Focuses on practicing syllables, words, and phrases.
  • Occupational Therapy: Addresses fine motor difficulties.
  • Physical Therapy: Uses physical methods to aid recovery.
  • Multidisciplinary Approach: Involves collaboration with neurologists, geneticists, and other specialists.

When to seek medical attention ?

Consult a healthcare professional if you notice any speech difficulties or suspect CAS in your child. Early intervention improves outcomes.