Question

A 4 1/2-year-old boy has significant speech and language difficulties exemplified by poor oral-motor control, slight difficulty in swallowing, high palate, poor tongue mobility, and fasciculation on protrusion. During an evaluation, the speech-language pathologist notes very poor paper-and-pencil grasp, poor posture, and an inability to complete performance tasks requiring fine motor control. To which of the following should the child be referred in order to obtain additional diagnostic information?

A. An otolaryngologist
B. A physical therapist
C. A neurologist
D. A physiologist

Answer 1

A child exhibiting speech and language difficulties, poor motor control, and difficulty with fine motor tasks should be referred to a neurologist. the correct answer is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The child with significant speech and language difficulties, poor oral-motor control, difficulty swallowing, high palate, poor tongue mobility, and fasciculations on protrusion, as well as challenges with fine motor control, should be referred to a neurologist for additional diagnostic information. Neurologists are specialized in dealing with conditions affecting the nervous system, which is responsible for controlling muscles and coordination.

Given the symptoms such as poor motor skills, difficulties in speech, and problems with fine motor control, it is crucial to evaluate for neurological conditions that may underlie these issues. A neurological exam can provide insights into whether there is an issue with the hypoglossal nerve or other areas of the peripheral nervous system, brainstem, or the brain itself that may be contributing to these difficulties.