Landau–Kleffner syndrome

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Landau–Kleffner syndrome (LKS), also known as acquired epileptic aphasia, is a rare childhood neurological disorder characterized by the sudden or gradual development of aphasia (the inability to understand or express language) and an abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG). The syndrome typically manifests in children between the ages of 3 and 7 years old who have previously developed normal language skills.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of Landau–Kleffner syndrome is the loss of language comprehension and verbal expression. This aphasia can be either receptive (difficulty understanding spoken language) or expressive (difficulty speaking). Other symptoms may include:

• Seizures, which occur in about 70-85% of cases.
• Behavioral problems such as hyperactivity, aggression, and autistic-like behaviors.
• Sleep disturbances.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of LKS is based on a combination of clinical evaluation, EEG findings, and the exclusion of other conditions. The EEG typically shows abnormal electrical activity, especially during sleep. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and other neuroimaging techniques are usually normal but may be used to rule out other causes of aphasia and seizures.

Treatment

Treatment for Landau–Kleffner syndrome often involves a combination of antiepileptic drugs, corticosteroids, and speech therapy. In some cases, surgical intervention such as multiple subpial transection may be considered if seizures are not controlled by medication.

Prognosis

The prognosis for children with LKS varies. Some children may recover language skills fully, while others may have persistent language deficits. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes.

Related Pages

• Aphasia
• Epilepsy
• Neurological disorder
• Seizure
• Speech therapy