Language and phonological awareness abilities of children treated for posterior fossa tumor

The general and high-level language and phonological awareness abilities of twelve children treated for posterior fossa tumor were examined in the context of recent theories implicating the cerebellum in language function. and treatment effects. At a group level, twelve children exhibited reduced performance in comparison to their individually matched peers on receptive and expressive general language measures. Across high-level language parameters, a group of ten of the twelve children with posterior fossa tumor demonstrated comparatively poor skills. At an individual case analysis level. three of twelve children demonstrated specific general language deficits. particularly in the areas of expressive language and syntax. However, three of ten children individually exhibited Global impairments in high-level language, with an additional three. demonstrating specific disturbances to problems solving, or lexical knowledge. Key contributing factors discussed included the impact of direct involvement of cerebellar structures, fourth ventricle location and associated hydrocephalus,, tumor type, treatment effects. and young age at diagnosis. While all children with identified general language deficits also demonstrated severe global high-level impairments, findings indicated that high-level language disturbances may also occur in the presence of intact general language skills.