Neurobiology of learning disabilities

Learning disabilities are the product of neurological damage which occurs during fetal development. The malformations produced are unique to each individual and do not resemble acquired neurological damage. Consequently, models of developmental disorders must be developed independently and cannot be based on acquired adult aphasia or dyslexia literature. Neurological conditions of adults with developmental disorders are difficult to interpret since aberrations that occur early during fetal development can have a cascading effect, disrupting neural organization in other brain regions. An appreciation of basic concepts of brain development suggests treatment interventions that will modify neurophysiological functioning.