Landau-Kleffner syndrome

Disease Overview

Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) is a rare neurological syndrome characterized by the sudden or gradual development of aphasia (the inability to understand or express language) and recurrent seizures (epilepsy). Children with LKS typically develop normally until signs and symptoms of the syndrome begin to develop between age 2 and 8 years.[826][8642] Males are more  often affected by LKS than females.[826] 

In about 20% of people with LKS, mutations (changes) in the GRIN2A gene have been identified. The syndrome is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. In other cases, the syndrome may be caused by changes to other unidentified genes.[13691] LKS is diagnosed when a doctor sees clinical features that are consistent with the syndrome such as a loss of speech and an electroencephalogram (EEG) that shows specific kinds of seizure activity. Genetic testing can be used to confirm if there is a mutation in GRIN2A, but this testing is not done routinely.[8642]

Treatment for LKS usually consists of medications such as anticonvulsants and corticosteroids to help prevent seizures. Speech therapy should also be started promptly in order to ensure the best long-term outlook for children with LKS.[8642]

Synonyms

• Acquired aphasia with convulsive disorder
• LKS
• Acquired epileptiform aphasia
• Acquired epileptic aphasia