Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD)
What is CAPD?
There has been a recent increase in awareness of Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), also referred to as Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD). CAPD is a disorder of the central auditory nervous system that is associated with a number of behavioral manifestations and a variety of symptoms. Auditory processing is understanding the sounds in our environment by breaking it down to its most basic form and putting it back together.
Symptoms
Some common behavioral manifestations in children with CAPD may include:
• Difficulty understanding speech in the presence of background noise or in a reverberant acoustic environment
• Difficulty following multi-step directions
• Difficulty with rapid speech
• Inability to identify the source of a sound
Some academic difficulties include poor spelling, poor reading and trouble understanding information presented verbally in the classroom.
Diagnosis
To diagnose CAPD, a series of tests will be administered in a sound-treated room. These tests are designed to examine every aspect of auditory processing. Only an audiologist can assess and diagnose CAPD. Because of the variability of the brain’s maturation in younger children, the minimum age for testing is seven to eight years old. Because so many of the symptoms are similar to other learning disabilities and disorders, it is vital that a comprehensive evaluation is completed by a specially trained audiologist.
Treatment
A multidisciplinary team with expertise in CAPD gives you the best chance at being successful in the treatment and management of a child with a diagnosed CAPD. One of the most important things to remember is that there is no standard approach to treatment. Treatment of CAPD is highly individualized and deficit specific, which is dependent on the careful diagnosis by an audiologist.
Our Physicians
Rex ENT Specialists at Wakefield are experienced in treating CAPD. Our audiologist, Genevieve Spiliopoulos, M.S., C.C.C.-A, is trained in the newest treatment techniques for CAPD. Also, our physicians, Dr. Esa Bloedon and Dr. Brett Dorfman, specialize in treating ear, nose and throat disorders in adults and children. For personalized and timely care, please visit us at our office.
