Long-latency auditory evoked potential in children with stuttering

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Audiology
• Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Stuttering is a complex speech disorder potentially involving auditory processing.
• Cognitive potentials like Mismatch Negativity (MMN) and P300 reflect auditory pathway function.
• Previous research has not extensively explored MMN and P300 in children with stuttering without auditory complaints.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate Mismatch Negativity (MMN) and P300 cognitive potential latency and amplitude in children with stuttering.
• To compare these auditory evoked potentials between children who stutter and a control group.
• To identify potential auditory processing differences associated with stuttering.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study included 50 children (6-11 years), 15 with stuttering and 35 controls.
• All participants underwent peripheral and central audiological evaluations, including MMN and P300.
• Stuttering severity was assessed through speech analysis of recorded spontaneous speech.

Main Results:

• Significant differences were observed in Mismatch Negativity (MMN) and P300 cognitive potential latencies.
• The amplitude of Mismatch Negativity (MMN) also showed significant differences between groups.
• Alterations in wave morphology were noted in the stuttering group.

Conclusions:

• Children with stuttering exhibited delayed Mismatch Negativity (MMN) and P300 latencies compared to controls.
• Increased Mismatch Negativity (MMN) amplitude was found in children who stutter.
• These findings suggest underlying auditory processing alterations in children with stuttering.