childhood apraxia of speech
Also written as: CAS
A neurological pediatric speech sound disorder affecting the precision and consistency of movements for speech production.
Full Definition
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder where children have difficulty consistently and accurately producing speech sounds, syllables, and words. The disorder is not due to muscle weakness or paralysis but rather to problems with motor planning and programming. Children with CAS may have difficulty sequencing sounds, show inconsistent errors, and demonstrate inappropriate prosody. Diagnosis requires careful differential assessment to distinguish CAS from other speech sound disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as CAS. Distinguish from adult apraxia of speech, which is typically acquired following neurological injury.
In Context
- "The diagnosis of childhood apraxia of speech was supported by inconsistent error patterns and prosodic abnormalities." — Pediatric speech evaluation
- "Treatment for childhood apraxia of speech emphasized motor learning principles and intensive practice." — Therapy planning documentation