Which statement describes an important diagnostic distinction between apraxia of speech and dysarthria?

Which statement describes an important diagnostic distinction between apraxia of speech and dysarthria?

• A. Apraxia of speech results from lower motor neuron lesions, while dysarthria results from upper motor neuron lesions.
• B. Clients with apraxia of speech lack the ability to monitor reactive speech, whereas clients with dysarthria lack the ability to sequence volitional speech movements.
• C. Strength and coordination of speech musculature are intact in apraxia, while dysarthria is characterized by weakness and incoordination.
• D. Apraxia of speech is characterized by predictability, while dysarthria involves variable misarticulations.

Answer: (C)

The correct answer highlights a fundamental difference between apraxia of speech and dysarthria, specifically in terms of the physical capabilities of the speech musculature. In apraxia of speech, individuals generally have intact strength and coordination of their speech muscles, meaning they can physically move their articulators but have difficulty with the planning and sequencing of these movements required for speech production. This results in gaps in the fluency and accuracy of their speech. Dysarthria, on the other hand, is characterized by weakness and incoordination of the speech musculature, which directly affects the clarity and ease of speech. Patients may present with slurred speech, slowed speech, or difficulty controlling the pitch and volume, all stemming from compromised muscle function. Understanding this distinction is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, as strategies for management will differ depending on whether the issue is rooted in planning (apraxia) or muscle function (dysarthria).

The correct answer highlights a fundamental difference between apraxia of speech and dysarthria, specifically in terms of the physical capabilities of the speech musculature. In apraxia of speech, individuals generally have intact strength and coordination of their speech muscles, meaning they can physically move their articulators but have difficulty with the planning and sequencing of these movements required for speech production. This results in gaps in the fluency and accuracy of their speech.

Dysarthria, on the other hand, is characterized by weakness and incoordination of the speech musculature, which directly affects the clarity and ease of speech. Patients may present with slurred speech, slowed speech, or difficulty controlling the pitch and volume, all stemming from compromised muscle function. Understanding this distinction is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, as strategies for management will differ depending on whether the issue is rooted in planning (apraxia) or muscle function (dysarthria).