Acquired epileptiform aphasia: 44 years after diagnosis

We report a case of a 48-year-old woman who was diagnosed with Landau-Kleffner syndrome (LKS) at the age of 4 and reassessed by the same neurologist four decades later. While her seizures abated by the time she was 12 years old, she was left with chronic aphasia, despite receiving optimal care. Although she graduated from high school, started her own family, and was gainfully employed, she was vulnerable in situations that required clear communication. This case reflects successful management of an otherwise debilitating condition and reminds us of the vulnerability of adults with LKS and their need for a life-long support.