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Disorder of written expression

Contents of this page:

Alternative Names   

Written expression disorder

Definition    Return to top

Disorder of written expression is a childhood condition which involves poor writing skills.

Causes    Return to top

Although no body-wide (systemic) studies have been conducted to determine how common this disorder is, it is thought to be about as common as learning and reading disorders.

This disorder appears by itself or along with other learning disabilities such as:

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

Other causes of learning disabilities must be ruled out before the diagnosis can be confirmed.

Treatment    Return to top

Remedial education is the best approach to this type of disorder.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

The degree of recovery depends on the severity of the disorder. Marked improvement is often seen after treatment.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

Parents who are concerned about their child's language ability should have the child tested by educational professionals.

Prevention    Return to top

Learning disorders often run in families. Affected or potentially affected families should make every effort to recognize problems early. Intervention can begin as early as preschool or kindergarten.

References    Return to top

Kelly DP. Patterns of development and function in the school-aged child. In: Kliegman RM, Behrman RE, Jenson HB, Stanton BF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 18th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 30.

Update Date: 10/18/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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