The Speech and Language Treatment for Individuals with Dandy Walker Malformation: A Case Report

Tomasz Wiech and Kucala Kinga

Abstract

Dandy Walker Syndrome is a rare genetic, congenital brain defect affecting the cerebellum. It includes the classic form and other mild variants. Its symptoms may include developmental delays in motor and language skills, poor muscle tone, problems with balance and coordination, problems with eye movement, vision and hearing impairment. The treatment for the disorder includes medications, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy and special education therapy. The speech and language treatment should be established on the analysis of medical documents, the detailed interview questions for parents, speech and language assessment and the observation of child in the natural environment. There is, however, little information available to the speech clinician on management of Dandy Walker Malformation. The main aim of the paper is to present the methods used in the therapy and their effects.

Relevant Publications in Journal of Rare Disorders: Diagnosis & Therapy