Expressive language disorder - developmental

Language disorder - expressive; Specific language impairment

Expressive language disorder is common in school-aged children.

The causes are not well understood. Damage to the cerebrum of the brain and malnutrition may cause some cases. Genetic factors may also be involved.

Children with an expressive language disorder have a hard time getting their meaning or message across to others.

Symptoms of this disorder may include any of the following:

• Below-average vocabulary skills
• Improper use of tenses (past, present, future)
• Problems making complex sentences
• Problems remembering words

Standardized expressive language and nonverbal intellectual tests should be conducted if an expressive language disorder is suspected. Testing for other learning disabilities may also be needed.

Language therapy is the best method to treat this type of disorder. The goal is to increase the number of phrases a child can use. This is done by using block-building techniques and speech therapy.

How much the child recovers depends on the severity of the disorder. With reversible factors, such as vitamin deficiencies, there may be nearly full recovery.

Children who do not have any other developmental or motor coordination problems have the best outlook (prognosis). Often, such children have a family history of delays in language milestones, but eventually catch up.

This disorder may lead to:

• Learning problems
• Low self-esteem
• Social problems

If you are concerned about a child's language development, have the child tested.

Good nutrition during pregnancy, and early childhood and prenatal care may help.