Brain basis of childhood speech and language disorders: Are we closer to clinically meaningful MRI markers?

Abstract

Purpose of review Developmental speech and language disorders are common, seen in one in 20 preschool children, in the absence of frank neurological deficits or intellectual impairment. They are a key reason parents seek help from paediatricians. Complex neurogenetic and environmental contributions underpin the disorders, yet few specific causes are known. With the advent of quantitative brain imaging, a growing number of studies have investigated neural contributions. Here, we discuss current MRI approaches and recent findings (January 2014-June 2016) in the field. Recent findings Five relevant studies were identified (n = 3-speech disorder and n = 2-language disorder). Significant variabil..