Developmental stuttering in adults.

Abstract

Developmental stuttering is characterized by early childhood onset with repetition of syllables, prolongations, and blockades as well as secondary behavioural abnormalities. Early therapy is important while there is no approved pharmacological approach. Studies associate developmental stuttering with dopamin surplus in the striatum causing dysfunction of cortical speech areas. Consequently, antidopaminergic agents are being investigated to improve symptoms. The evidence in adults is comprised of few studies of poor quality but might hold promise as a new treatment option, as argued in this review.