Joe McHugh (Donegal North East, Fine Gael)
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625. To ask the Minister for Health his view of Landauklefner; if he will outline pertinent familial supports which are recognised by the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25121/13]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I am advised that Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) is a rare, childhood neurological disorder characterized by the sudden or gradual development of a language disorder and sometimes seizures. LKS affects the parts of the brain that control comprehension and speech. The disorder usually occurs in children between the ages of 3 and 7 years. Typically, children with LKS develop normally but then lose their language skills for no apparent reason. Its cause is unknown. The disorder is difficult to diagnose and may be mis-diagnosed as autism/or a developmental disorder.

I understand that treatment for LKS may include medications, such as anticonvulsants and corticosteroids, and speech therapy. The management of children with this syndrome is a service matter for the Health Service Executive and treatment options will vary depending on the particular presentation of the child in question. My Department has referred this question to the Health Service Executive and asked that the Executive respond directly to the Deputy in relation to this aspect of the matter raised.