A Treatment Model for Fluent Aphasia Combined Apraxia of Speech : A Case Study

Abstract:

Apraxia of Speech (AOS) is a motor speech disorder that affects the planning and sequencing of speech production. It often coexists with aphasia, requiring a treatment approach that addresses both conditions simultaneously. However, research on the treatment of AOS combined with fluent aphasia remains limited. This study explores an intervention model through a case study of a patient with both AOS and fluent aphasia.

The patient underwent a three-week treatment program, receiving therapy twice a week. The target sounds were /d/ and /t/, with training involving nonword repetition and lexical naming. The lexical naming task integrated components from Lexical Retrieval Treatment (LRT) and Sound Production Treatment (SPT), structured into a seven-step process. Progress was measured by the patient`s goal achievement rate in each session and assessed using the Concise Chinese Aphasia Test (CCAT) before and after the whole treatment.

Results indicated positive progress in both nonword repetition and lexical naming. CCAT scores showed improvements in auditory comprehension, lexical naming, and reading comprehension, with a notable reduction in the severity of lexical naming difficulties. These findings suggest that appropriately addressing AOS can enhance treatment efficiency for individuals with more complex forms of aphasia, providing a potential reference for future therapeutic approaches.

Key words: fluent aphasia, apraxia of speech, treatment

Reference:

1. Henry, M. L., Beeson, P. M., & Rapcsak, S. Z. (2008). Treatment for lexical retrieval in progressive aphasia. Aphasiology, 22(7-8), 826–838.

2. Wambaugh, J. L., Kallhoff, L., & Nessler, C. (2021). Sound Production Treatment for Acquired Apraxia of Speech: An Examination of Dosage in Relation to Probe Performance. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 30, 425–440.