What is Landau Kleffner syndrome (LKS)?
Landau Kleffner syndrome is a type of neurological disorder and seizures in children that can lead to muteness. This syndrome starts from the ages of 2 to 8 years. Speech disorders often occur suddenly, and the disease can affect both the child’s mental abilities and his speech. Children with LKS have abnormal brain activity during sleep, and many also experience seizures.
Caused by Lando-Klefner syndrome
The cause of Landoklefner syndrome is the mutation of the gene called GRIN2A in children with this syndrome. This gene is responsible for producing proteins that send signals to nerve cells (neurons) in the brain. Disturbance in the transmission of these messages will lead to speech or understanding problems, as well as seizures. Family history of epilepsy or convulsions is not common in these children.
Lando-Kelfner syndrome is often mistaken for autism, especially when an EEG shows abnormal results. Most parents go to the doctor when their children become deaf or hard of hearing.
Researchers believe that these gene mutations cause the electrical signals in their brains to go wrong. These abnormal signals can cause symptoms of LKS. They are also studying whether there is a connection between LKS and the immune system. An autoimmune response in which the immune system attacks the body’s own cells may contribute to LKS.
Symptoms of Lando Kleffner syndrome
A child with Landau Kleffner syndrome may have the following symptoms:
unable to speak
She or He may have a seizure.
The probability of suffering from behavioral disorders (such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is higher.
Diagnosis Lando-Klefner syndrome
In the first step, the neurologist examines the child’s medical records and clinical examinations.
Electroencephalography (brain tape) is often abnormal in these children, especially during sleep.
Metabolic and genetic tests
MRI, which shows normal results
Lando Klefner syndrome treatment
Taking anticonvulsants
In some cases, taking anticonvulsants such as clonazepam, diazepam, and levothyroxine can help reduce the number and severity of seizures and improve symptoms.
speech therapy
This method is performed with the aim of improving pronunciation and reducing the symptoms of the disease, through pronunciation exercises, speech exercises and breathing exercises.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
This method aims to improve behavior and social interaction, using various techniques such as problem analysis, self-control exercises and changing thinking patterns.