Ictal Speech Disturbance and Cerebral Dominance.

Abstract

Ictal speech disturbances in right-handed 34 epileptics in relation to cerebral dominance were examined. 1) The incidence of aphasic fit in left hemisphere is statistically significant (P<0.01). 2) The incidence of speech automatism in right hemisphere is also significant (P<0.05). 3) The laterality with regard to speech arrest is not significant. 4) There were no cases combined with aphasic fit and speech automatism. 5) Most cases with aphasic fits were among those in which temporal foci were found. Some cases with speech arrest were among those in which a central foci were found. 6) The symptomatology and physiological mechanisms of speech automatism were discussed.