Abstract |
The aim of the present study is threefold. First, to identify possible weaknesses of the neoassociationst model and evaluate the clinical utility of the traditional aphasia taxonomy.
Second, to adapt and standardize a battery of language tests in Greek. Third, to investigate
associations between specific B locations and discrete linguistic and reading deficits. With
regard to the first aim, 65 stroke patients with left hemisphere Bs were assessed and classified
using the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination-short form. Bs were identified in 16 cortical
and subcortical areas of the left hemisphere by two independent neuroradiologists. Results did
not confirm the expected B-syndrome correspondence based on the classical model in a large
proportion of patients, and traditional taxonomic system failed to correctly classify several
cases. 512 healthy individuals from eight broad areas of Greece participated in the
adaptation/standardization study (2nd aim). Investigation of the measures’ psychometric
properties revealed effects of demographic factors on performance, and also provided
indications of the tests’ clinical utility. These measures were subsequently administered to a
sample of 58 chronic aphasic patients, in order to address the third aim of the study. Results
indicated that the degree of impairment was related to B volume. Moreover, specific B loci
were linked to discrete language and reading deficits. In sum, results suggested that the neoassociationist model is oversimplified and requires significant revision. Moreover, findings
question the clinical validity and utility of the traditional taxonomic system and stresse the
importance of developing new psychometric tools to assess aphasic patients within a deficitoriented (rather than syndrome-based) framework. Finally, the data presented here provide
clues for possible relationships between left hemisphere cortical Bs and impairment of different
language aspects.
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