2
4
5
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
R
S
T
U
V
W
X
Y
Z

Expressive language disorder - developmental
Definition:

Developmental expressive language disorder is a disorder in which a child has lower-than-normal proficiency for his or her age in vocabulary, the production of complex sentences, and recall of words.
Alternative Names:
Language disorder - expressive

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Three to ten percent of all school age children have expressive language disorder. The cause of this disorder is unknown, and may vary in different cases. Cerebral damage and malnutrition may cause some cases -- perhaps in combination with genetic factors.
Symptoms:
  • below average vocabulary skills
  • improper use of correct tenses
  • problems in the production of complex sentences
  • problems in recalling words
Signs and tests:
Standardized expressive language and non-verbal intellectual tests should be conducted, if an expressive language disorder is suspected. Testing for other learning disabilities should also be done.
Treatment:
Language therapy is the best approach to this type of disorder. The goal of this therapy is to increase the number of phrases a child can use. This is done by using "block building techniques" and speech therapy.
Expectations (prognosis):

The degree of recovery depends on the severity of the disorder, but there can be close to full recovery given good prognostic indicators (i.e., reversible factors like vitamin deficiencies, etc.).
Complications:
  • problems with socialization
  • learning problems
  • low self esteem
Calling your health care provider:
Parents who are concerned about their child's language ability should have the child tested.
Prevention:
Good nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood and prenatal care may help, but other methods of prevention are unknown.
Review Date: 5/24/2002
Reviewed By: Elizabeth Hait, M.D., Department of Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
adam.com