auditory processing disorder (APD); central auditory processing disorder (CAPD); auditory perception problem; auditory comprehension deficit; central auditory dysfunction; central deafness; word deafness

Etiology: - in children may be associated with - dyslexia - attention deficit disorder - autism - specific language impairment - pervasive developmental disorder - developmental delay Pathology: - hearing & intelligence is generally normal Clinical manifestations: - trouble paying attention to & remembering information presented orally - problems carrying out multistep directions - poor listening skills - increased time to process information - low academic performance - behavior problems - language difficulty - confusing syllable sequences - problems developing vocabulary & understanding language - difficulty with reading, comprehension, spelling, & vocabulary Management: 1) rule out hearing disorder a) referral to otolaryngologist b) audiology 2) speech-language pathologist 3) multidisciplinary team approach - auditory trainers - environmental modifications classroom acoustics, placement, and seating may help - exercises to improve language-building skills - auditory memory enhancement - auditory integration training is without proven benefit

General

hearing disorder learning disorder (learning disability)

References

Auditory Processing Disorder in Children http://www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/voice/auditory.asp