Aphemia
Pronunciation: uh-FEE-mee-uh
A rare speech disorder characterized by the inability to speak despite intact comprehension and writing abilities.
Full Definition
Aphemia is a specific type of motor speech disorder where patients retain normal language comprehension, reading, and writing abilities but cannot produce speech voluntarily. Unlike aphasia, which affects multiple language modalities, aphemia is purely a disorder of speech motor planning and execution. The condition typically results from lesions in the left frontal cortex and is often seen in stroke patients. Patients with aphemia may be able to produce automatic speech (like counting or swearing) but struggle with voluntary, propositional speech.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with other speech disorders; emphasize the preservation of written language abilities.
In Context
- "The patient presented with aphemia following a left frontal stroke, maintaining excellent written communication while being unable to speak." — Clinical assessment report
- "Differential diagnosis between aphemia and Broca's aphasia requires careful evaluation of the patient's writing abilities." — Speech-language pathology evaluation