CENTRAL AUDITORY PROCESSING DISORDER

Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) is a label that many therapists use for a constellation of symptoms that affects the way the brain processes auditory information. People with CAPD have difficulty understanding and interpreting sounds, especially in noisy or complex listening environments. This disorder can affect various auditory skills, such as auditory discrimination, sound localization, auditory memory, and auditory sequencing. CAPD can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to communicate, learn, and participate in daily activities.

Because central auditory processing disorder (CAPD) is a constellation of symptoms and not a disorder in itself, it is not found in the DSM-5 of the American Psychiatric Association. When we see a person referred by a speech therapist or audiologist with this label, we often do a work-up for medical conditions that may present with the symptoms of CAPD. Some possible diagnoses which cause CAPD include:

1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Children with ADHD may exhibit symptoms of CAPD, such as difficulties with following instructions, poor listening skills, and reduced attention span. However, ADHD symptoms are not solely related to auditory processing and often include inattentiveness, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Please see the section on ADHD for a description of this disorder.
2. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): ASD can have overlapping symptoms with CAPD, including language and communication difficulties. However, CAPD affects auditory processing, while ASD involves deficits in social, communicative and repetitive behaviors.
3. Learning Disabilities (LD): Certain learning disabilities, such as difficulties with reading (dyslexia) or writing (dysgraphia), may present with auditory processing challenges.
4. Hearing Loss: Hearing loss can affect auditory processing, leading to similar symptoms commonly associated with CAPD. It is important to rule out hearing loss as a primary cause of the observed difficulties through an audiology assessment.
5. Language Delay: Specific language delay diagnosis in children can include:

• Expressive Language Disorder: Difficulty in expressing thoughts and ideas using language, despite having a good understanding of language.
• Receptive Language Disorder: Challenges in understanding or processing the language that is heard, even if the ability to produce language is intact.
• Mixed Receptive-Expressive Language Disorder: Difficulties with both understanding and producing language.

When evaluating a child diagnosed with Central Auditory Processing Disorder (CAPD) by a therapist, we conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Identifying the cause is crucial as it informs the appropriate treatment plan. We will arrange for this treatment, and if therapy is required, prescriptions for the necessary therapy can be obtained during a routine office visit with one of our physicians.