Disorders of Language Flashcards
What is aphasia?
a disturbance in language as a result of brain damage
What are some causes of acute onset aphasia?
stroke, head injury, surgical resection
What are some causes of insidious onset aphasia?
dementia, tumour
What are some causes of episodic aphasia?
seizures, migraines
Which hemisphere usually contains language function?
the left hemisphere
What is the role of the right hemisphere in language?
understanding intonation and the social aspects of language
A stroke in which artery will cause damage to Broca’s area?
the superior division of the middle cerebral artery
A stroke in which artery will cause damage to Wernicke’s area?
the inferior division of the middle cerebral artery
What does speech sound like in Broca’s aphasia?
speech has correct content but loses grammatical structure and requires highly effortful output
What does speech sound like in Wernicke’s aphasia?
speech is fluent but doesn’t use appropriate words and so the speech lacks meaning
Is comprehension affected in Broca’s aphasia?
no
Is comprehension affected in Wernkicke’s aphasia?
yes
What is the arcuate fasciculus?
a tract connecting wernicke’s and broca’s areas
Are there any motor deficits associated with Wernicke’s aphasia?
no
Are there any motor deficits associated with Broca’s aphasia?
yes - right face and arm weakness
