Causes and risk factors
Like some of the other diseases the exact cause of CAS is still not known. It has been postulated that the there is some abnormality in the speech centre in the brain which impairs the movements of the muscles which are used in pronouncing the words, syllables or sounds. There is lack of coordination to use the lips, tongue and jaw for pronunciation. Although still not clear certain genetic factor plays a role in CAS.
Clinical presentation:
The complaints are notice mostly around the age of 2 years when the speech development has started. The child is unable to make certain sounds or repeat the same word differently or to pronounce syllable. The infant does not babble and one can notice a stress the child has to make for pronunciation. They make errors or pause for a long to utter a complete sentence. Some can find difficulty in initiating a sentence; they face difficulty in using the lips or tongue for making sounds or speaking. As a result of this the child can delete certain difficult words. The child can understand things properly but faces difficulty in speaking. It often becomes difficult for an unknown person to understand the speech. A few children along with this can also suffer from other associated complaints like difficulty in chewing, sucking, swallowing. They face difficulty in other activities where fine motor movement is necessary e.g.: using scissor, tying the show lace, difficulty in reading etc. Such children tend to be confused and slow.
Investigations:
Diagnosis can be made on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the parents. Reviewing of the history is the most essential step. All the details are obtained from the family and friends. Close observation of speech in such cases is essential. A speech therapist will help to evaluate the case. An auditory examination is carried out to rule out the hearing loss. Certain other investigations can be advised in cases if there exist any underlying pathology.
Treatment:
The treatment is planned after assessing the individual case. Speech therapy is the main line of treatment. Various speech therapies can be given as per the disability, the ability to cope up and the age of the child.The speech therapy aims at teaching the new motor skill daily practice and support and care by the parents is must in such cases.
Regular practicing of the speech therapies has shown effective results.
