Disorder of written expression (patient information)

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Editor-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [mailto:mgibson@perfuse.org] Phone:617-632-7753; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, M.B.B.S.

Synonyms and Keywords: Written expression disorder

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

What are the symptoms of Disorder of written expression?

 * Errors in grammar and punctuation
 * Poor handwriting
 * Poor spelling

What causes Disorder of written expression?

 * Although no 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:
 * Developmental coordination disorder
 * Expressive language disorder
 * Mathematics disorder
 * Reading disorder

When to seek urgent medical care?
Parents who are concerned about their child's language ability should have their child tested by educational professionals.

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

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

Where to find medical care for Disorder of written expression?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Disorder of written expression

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?

 * The degree of recovery depends on the severity of the disorder.


 * Marked improvement is often seen after treatment.

Possible complications

 * Learning problems
 * Low self-esteem
 * Problems with socializing

Prevention

 * 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.

Source
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001543.htm