Primary Progressive Aphasia

Primary progressive aphasia is a rare neurological disease, that is, a disease relating to the brain. It affects your language capabilities, which become slowly and progressively impaired. However, your other mental functions are not impacted. While other forms of aphasia result from stroke or traumatic brain injury, primary progressive aphasia is a degenerative brain condition. It results from worsening of brain tissue affecting areas of the brain that are important for speech and language.

Primary progressive aphasia usually begins as a subtle language disorder, but progresses to almost a complete inability to speak in severe cases. The type or pattern of the language deficit may differ from patient to patient. Initially, you may have a normal or even increased capacity of word production. However, over time your speech becomes less fluent and slower and requires more effort. In some cases it begins with a reduced ability to find the right words but progressively becomes worse, affecting your overall articulation.

When to seek expert advise

If you or a loved one is experiencing language problems or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor immediately. You can obtain additional information and expert medical advice from the highly trained and internationally accredited staff at the ​​​Section of Neurology at The Aga Khan University Hospital.​