Dysarthria

About: Dysarthria is a research topic. Over the lifetime, 2402 publications have been published within this topic receiving 56554 citations.

Complex orofacial movements and the disappearance of cerebellar mutism: report of five cases.

Abstract: A syndrome of mutism and subsequent dysarthria occurs frequently in children after resection of a cerebellar tumour. The role of orofacial and speech motor control in this syndrome has not been studied systematically. We examined simple and complex orofacial movements during the mute phase and shortly after the resumption of speech in five children with mutism and subsequent dysarthria. The recovery of complex orofacial movements coincided with the disappearance of the mutism.

Individual and environmental contributions to treatment outcomes following a neuroplasticity-principled speech treatment (LSVT LOUD) in children with dysarthria secondary to cerebral palsy: a case study review.

Abstract: This study describes the use of a neuroplasticity-principled speech treatment approach (LSVT(®)LOUD) with children who have dysarthria secondary to cerebral palsy. To date, the authors have treated 25 children with mild-to-severe dysarthria, a continuum of gross and fine motor functions, and variable cognitive abilities. From this data set, two case studies are presented that represent as weak or strong responders to LSVT LOUD. These case studies demonstrate how individual and environmental features may impact immediate and lasting responses to treatment. Principles that drive activity-dependent neuroplasticity are embedded in LSVT LOUD and may contribute to positive therapeutic and acoustic outcomes. However, examination of the response patterns indicated that intensity (within and across treatment sessions) is necessary but not sufficient for change. Weak responders may require a longer treatment phase, better timing (e.g., developmentally, socially), and a more prominent desire to communicate successfully during daily activities. Strong responders appear to benefit from the intensity and saliency of treatment as well as from intrinsic and extrinsic rewards for using the trained skills for everyday communication. Finally, possibilities are presented for technological solutions designed to promote accessibility to the intensive task repetition and maintenance required to drive lasting changes.

Dysarthria and dysphagia as long-term sequelae in a child treated for posterior fossa tumour.

Abstract: The current case report provides a comprehensive description of the persistent dysarthria and dysphagia evident in a 7.5 year old child treated for recurrent posterior fossa tumour (PFT). AC was assessed on a comprehensive perceptual and instrumental test battery incorporating all components of the speech production system (respiration, phonation, resonance, articulation and prosody) 2 years and 4 months following completion of her treatment. The nature of her swallowing impairment was investigated through the use of videofluoroscopic evaluation of swallowing (VFS). A mild dysarthria with ataxic and LMN components was identified, although overall speech intelligibility was not affected. A moderate dysphagia was also identified with impairment in all three phases of the swallowing process; oral preparatory, oral and pharyngeal. Dysarthria and dysphagia as persistent sequelae in children treated for PFT have implications for the long-term management of these children. The need for appropriate treatment regimes, as well as pre-surgical counselling regarding dysarthria and dysphagia as possible outcomes following surgery are highlighted.