apraxia of speech
A motor speech disorder affecting the ability to plan and sequence speech movements, distinct from aphasia or dysarthria.
Full Definition
Apraxia of speech is a neurological motor speech disorder that impairs the brain's ability to plan and coordinate the precise movements needed for speech production. Unlike aphasia, which affects language processing, or dysarthria, which involves muscle weakness, apraxia specifically disrupts the motor planning and sequencing of speech sounds. Patients typically know what they want to say but struggle to execute the coordinated movements required for clear articulation. This condition often results from stroke, brain injury, or neurodegenerative diseases affecting the motor speech areas of the brain.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as AOS in clinical documentation. Distinguish from childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) which is developmental.
In Context
- "The assessment revealed apraxia of speech rather than aphasia, as evidenced by the patient's intact language comprehension." — Clinical evaluation report
- "Treatment for apraxia of speech focuses on motor speech therapy techniques rather than language-based interventions." — Treatment planning document