Speech motor control disorder after HIV infection

Neurology. 1994 Nov;44(11):2187-9. doi: 10.1212/wnl.44.11.2187.

Abstract

We examined the clinical characteristics of six right-handed patients who developed speech motor control disorders after human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. They exhibited an ataxic dysarthria, characterized by irregular articulatory breakdowns in consonant and vowel timing; were slow in timed decision-making tasks; and had impaired procedural learning. Other aspects of the neurologic examination revealed signs of diffuse CNS involvement including action-intention tremors, ataxic gait, and release signs. None developed HIV-associated dementia during 1 year of follow-up. Motor speech control disorder appears to be related to a cerebellar dysfunction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • HIV Infections / complications*
  • HIV Infections / drug therapy
  • HIV Infections / psychology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motor Activity
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Speech Disorders / etiology*
  • Speech Disorders / physiopathology