Central Auditory Processing Disorder

Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD), also known as Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), is a complex condition affecting the way the central nervous system processes auditory information.

Definition

Central Auditory Processing Disorder is a term used to describe a variety of disorders that affect the way the brain processes auditory information. It is not a hearing impairment, as individuals with CAPD usually have normal hearing. However, they cannot process the information they hear in the same way as others do, which leads to difficulties in recognizing and interpreting sounds, especially the sounds composing speech.

Symptoms

Symptoms of CAPD can range from mild to severe and can take many different forms. Some people with the disorder may have difficulty understanding speech in noisy environments, while others may struggle to follow directions, whether simple or complex. Other common symptoms include problems with bilateral sound localization, and difficulties with auditory discrimination and auditory pattern recognition.

Causes

The exact cause of Central Auditory Processing Disorder is unknown. However, it has been associated with conditions such as dyslexia, attention deficit disorder, autism, and specific language impairment. Some researchers believe that CAPD may result from delayed development or injury to the central auditory nervous system.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of CAPD is typically made by an audiologist using a variety of tests. These tests may include the Dichotic Listening Test, the Pitch Pattern Sequence Test, and the Filtered Speech Test. It is important to note that while these tests can help identify a potential CAPD, a definitive diagnosis can only be made by a professional with expertise in this area.

Treatment

Treatment for CAPD typically involves environmental modifications, compensatory strategies, and direct treatment approaches such as auditory training and speech-language therapy. The goal of treatment is to improve the individual's ability to process and interpret auditory information.

See also

• Auditory system
• Audiology
• Speech-language pathology

References

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