Glossary of Communication Disorder Terms - L

L

Labyrinth

organ of balance located in the inner ear. The labyrinth consists of three semicircular canals and the vestibule.

Labyrinthine hydrops

excessive fluid in the organ of balance (labyrinth); can cause pressure or fullness in the ears, hearing loss, dizziness, and loss of balance.

Labyrinthitis

viral or bacterial infection or inflammation of the inner ear that can cause dizziness, loss of balance, and temporary hearing loss.

Landau-Kleffner syndrome

childhood disorder of unknown origin which often extends into adulthood and can be identified by gradual or sudden loss of the ability to understand and use spoken language.

Language

system for communicating ideas and feelings using sounds, gestures, signs, or marks.

Language disorders

any of a number of problems with verbal communication and the ability to use or understand a symbol system for communication.

Laryngeal neoplasms

abnormal growths in the larynx (voice box) that can be cancerous or noncancerous.

Laryngeal nodules

noncancerous, callous-like growths on the inner parts of the vocal folds (vocal cords); usually caused by vocal abuse or misuse.

Laryngeal paralysis

loss of function or feeling of one or both of the vocal folds caused by injury or disease to the nerves of the larynx.

Laryngectomy

surgery to remove part or all of the larynx (voice box).

Laryngitis

hoarse voice or the complete loss of the voice because of irritation to the vocal folds (vocal cords).

Laryngoplasty

laryngeal framework surgery of a paralysed vocal cord to help strengthen the voice - a window in the thyroid cartilage is created and an implant is inserted into the para-glottic space via an open approach.

Larynx

valve structure between the trachea (windpipe) and the pharynx (the upper throat) that is the primary organ of voice production.

Learning disabilities

childhood disorders characterized by difficulty with certain skills such as reading or writing in individuals with normal intelligence.