Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)
Elisa Granocchio
Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), is a neuromotor speech sound disorder characterized by difficulties in the planning and sequential programming of articulatory movements in the absence of neuromuscular deficits. It represents a severe form of speech sound disorder and manifests early with delayed language onset, limited speech output, and reduced intelligibility. CAS is rare, and its nosographic classification remains debated across major diagnostic systems. Core diagnostic features include inconsistent errors, difficulties in articulatory transitions, and prosodic abnormalities. Diagnosis is complex and requires specialized clinical assessment, supported by checklists, as well as a multidisciplinary approach due to the frequent presence of comorbidities, including language disorders, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorders. The developmental course is variable, with possible persistent difficulties into adolescence and adulthood. Recent studies highlight neurofunctional alterations and a heterogeneous genetic basis, involving genes shared with other neurodevelopmental disorders. Early and intensive intervention is crucial to improve prognosis. The clinical complexity of CAS calls for targeted diagnostic and rehabilitative strategies, as well as further research to identify biomarkers that may support earlier diagnosis and more personalized treatments.
Keywords
Childhood apraxia of speech; Diagnosis; Comorbidities; Etiopathogenesis.
