agraphia
Pronunciation: ah-GRAF-ee-ah
Acquired loss of writing ability despite intact motor function and comprehension.
Full Definition
Agraphia is a neurological disorder characterized by the loss or impairment of written language production following brain injury, while maintaining adequate motor control of the dominant hand and normal language comprehension. This condition typically results from lesions in the left hemisphere, particularly affecting areas involved in language processing such as Broca's area, Wernicke's area, or connecting pathways. Types include pure agraphia (isolated writing impairment), agraphia with alexia (combined writing and reading deficits), and agraphia accompanying aphasia. The disorder can manifest as spelling errors, letter formation difficulties, or complete inability to produce written language. Assessment must differentiate agraphia from motor weakness, visual impairment, or general cognitive decline.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from dysgraphia (developmental) and motor impairments. Specify subtype when identified.
In Context
- "Post-stroke agraphia prevented the journalist from returning to work despite preserved speech and comprehension." — Occupational therapy evaluation
- "The assessment revealed pure agraphia with intact reading abilities and normal oral language skills." — Neurological examination report