Speech, Language, and Hearing Problems in the Laurence-Moon-Biedl Syndrome

Abstract

The speech, language, and hearing characteristics of three siblings medically diagnosed as having the Laurence-Moon-Biedl syndrome were evaluated. The type and degree of speech, language, and hearing deviations associated with this syndrome have not yet been adequately defined. Individual test results are compared, and the speech and language deviations observed appear to be related to the syndrome. It is doubtful, however, that the hearing loss evidenced in two of the affected siblings can be considered a primary characteristic of the syndrome. Thorough audiologic, otologic, speech, and language evaluations of children with the syndrome are needed.