Voice and Speech in Atypical Parkinsonian Disorders

Motor speech disorders are early, common, and functionally limiting features of atypical parkinsonian disorders (APDs) such as progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), corticobasal syndrome (CBS), and multiple system atrophy (MSA). These impairments are underrecognized and undertreated in neurology clinics.

This review aims to characterize speech impairment in APDs, offer practical guidance for clinical evaluation, highlight the role of Speech-Language pathologists (SLPs) in diagnosis and management, and outline current and emerging management strategies.

A narrative review was conducted by the Diagnosis and Treatment Working Group of CurePSP's Centers of Care, integrating literature and clinical experience to summarize evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of motor speech disorders in APDs.

Speech changes in APDs are often mixed dysarthrias with hypokinetic, spastic, and/or ataxic components, and may include apraxia of speech; these are frequently more severe and progress quicker than in Parkinson's disease. These features can assist in differential diagnosis and should prompt early referral to SLPs. Despite the high prevalence of speech and voice changes, comprehensive assessment of motor speech disorders is uncommon in neurology clinics. Current evidence regarding the efficacy of interventions is mixed. Digital acoustic analysis and neuromodulation offer promising directions for diagnosis and treatment.

Early, collaborative management of motor speech impairment elevates care in APDs. Neurologists and SLPs must work together to improve recognition, diagnosis, and care. Future research should focus on objective biomarkers and personalized therapies to support communication, autonomy, and quality of life for individuals living with APDs.