Table of Contents

ABSTRACT

Acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome is predominantly a pediatric condition characterized by the sudden onset of neuropsychiatric symptoms, including obsessive-compulsive behaviors, anxiety and restricted eating. Although rarely reported in adults, it can cause severe communication and feeding difficulties that are not yet well explored in literature. Objective: This study aims to detail the clinical profile of a young adult with severe speech and swallowing disturbances associated with neuropsychiatric syndrome (NPS), along with the assessment, management, and prognostic factors involved. Methods: A comprehensive speech and language evaluation encompassing speech, language, cognition, and swallowing was conducted. Results: The patient was diagnosed with anarthria with oral dysphagia secondary to neuropsychiatric syndrome. Due to immediate discharge following assessment, a home-based rehabilitation program targeting speech and swallowing was designed and demonstrated to the patient and family. Despite limited follow-up at home, significant improvement in the symptoms was observed at ten days and 1.5 months post-discharge. This improvement can be attributed to spontaneous recovery, the effect of medication, and the home training program collectively. Conclusion: This case highlights the potential for significant recovery of speech and swallowing functions in adults with neuropsychiatric syndrome. The observed improvement suggests that targeted therapy, combined with medical management, can effectively address severe impairments. This study also helps speech language pathologists gain a better under-standing of the assessment and management strategies employed for similar cases.

Keywords: Neuropsychiatric syndrome, anarthria, dysphagia, case, India