Landau-Kleffner Syndrome

What is Landau-Kleffner syndrome?

Landau-Kleffner syndrome is a rare language disorder. It frequently occurs in normally-developing children, usually between five and seven years of age, and is characterized by the gradual or sudden loss of the ability use or comprehend spoken language.

What are the signs of Landau-Kleffner syndrome?

The following are the most common indicators of Landau-Kleffner syndrome. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.

• Early signs may be referred to as auditory agnosia, which includes the child:

  • Suddenly having problems understanding what is said

  • Appearing to have problems with hearing and deafness may be suspected

  • Appearing to be autistic or developmentally delayed

• Spoken language is eventually affected, which may lead to complete loss of the ability to speak.

• Seizure disorder

• Some children develop their own method of communicating, such as with gestures or signs.

Hearing and intelligence usually are confirmed to be normal in children with Landau-Kleffner syndrome.

The symptoms of Landau-Kleffner syndrome may resemble other conditions or medical problems, such as deafness or learning disabilities. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

How is Landau-Kleffner syndrome diagnosed?

Landau-Kleffner syndrome is commonly diagnosed using an electroencephalogram (EEG), a scan that shows the brain's electrical waves, as well as other diagnostic tests.

Treatment for Landau-Kleffner syndrome:

Specific treatment for Landau-Kleffner syndrome will be determined by your physician based on:

• Your age, overall health, and medical history

• Extent of the disease

• Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies

• Expectations for the course of the disease

• Your opinion or preference

Treatment may include medication for seizures and language ability. Speech therapy should be started as early as possible and sign-language instruction may also be suggested.