Mayo Clinic specialists at the Primary Progressive Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech Clinic in Minnesota have deep experience caring for adults with rare brain conditions that affect language and speech. These conditions can be difficult to diagnose, so it's important to see experts who understand them well.
Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) affects how you understand and use language. You may have trouble finding the right words, putting them in the correct order or understanding what others say. Your symptoms can be different depending on the type of PPA you have.
Primary progressive apraxia of speech (PPAOS) affects how you form words. You know what you want to say. But your tongue, jaw and lips may not work the way you want them to. This can make speech sound slow or unclear.
Both PPA and PPAOS start slowly and get worse over time. Because these conditions are rare, they are sometimes mistaken for other conditions, such as stroke, dementia or anxiety.
The Primary Progressive Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, brings together highly trained specialists and advanced testing to give you a fast and accurate diagnosis. There is no cure, but early answers can help you plan your care and begin treatment sooner.
Speech therapy is an important part of your treatment. Mayo Clinic speech-language pathologists have special training to help people with PPA and PPAOS. They teach strategies to help you communicate more easily, keep your speech skills as strong as possible and stay connected with others as your symptoms change over time.
Mayo Clinic Connect: Brain & Nervous System Support Group
Team-based care, focused on you
At Mayo Clinic, your care is supported by a team of specialists who work together to understand your concerns and create a care plan that fits your needs. This teamwork helps you get answers and treatment more quickly.
At the Primary Progressive Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, your care is led by a neurologist who specializes in speech and language conditions. Your team also may include experts in:
If you wish, the clinic can send a full report to your primary care professional or other referring healthcare professional. The clinic also provides second opinions.
Advanced diagnosis and treatment
Primary progressive aphasia and apraxia of speech are often hard to diagnose. Their symptoms can look like those of other conditions. This can lead to delays in diagnosis and getting the care you need. Mayo Clinic uses the most advanced diagnostic techniques and tools to help you get the right diagnosis as quickly as possible.
At the Primary Progressive Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech Clinic, specialists take the time to understand your symptoms and medical history. Depending on your needs, your evaluation may include:
Your team reviews your test results with you and discusses your concerns and goals. They work with you to develop a care plan that meets your needs. If you receive a diagnosis of PPA or PPAOS, your treatment may include:
- Speech and language therapy.
- Physical and occupational therapy.
- Education and support.
You also may have the option to take part in a clinical trial or research study.
Experience matters
Mayo Clinic is a trusted leader in diagnosing and treating primary progressive aphasia and apraxia of speech. Each year, our experts care for nearly 90 people with these rare brain conditions. This makes Mayo Clinic a major referral center.
Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is ranked among the Best Hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery and rehabilitation by U.S. News & World Report.
Research and innovation
Mayo Clinic physician-scientists are working to better understand primary progressive aphasia (PPA), primary progressive apraxia of speech (PPAOS), and related diseases. Their research helps improve how these conditions are diagnosed and treated. Mayo Clinic is a leader in:
- Describing different types of PPA and PPAOS.
- Finding early signs of disease, called biomarkers, by using advanced brain imaging to support earlier diagnosis and follow changes over time.
- Using new digital tools, such as artificial intelligence and mobile technology, to help more people get diagnosed sooner.
- Studying new treatments, such as neuromodulation, to help maintain language and communication skills longer.
Learn more about the work of the Speech Research Group in Neurology, Artificial Intelligence, and Linguistics.
Mayo Clinic also takes part in clinical trials to explore new therapies and improve existing treatment options. Talk with your care team about whether a clinical trial may be right for you.
Appointments
You may be referred to the Primary Progressive Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech Clinic in Minnesota by your healthcare professional or you may make an appointment without a referral.
Contact
Nov. 08, 2025