Our experts have deep experience in caring for adults with primary progressive aphasia (PPA) and primary progressive apraxia of speech (PPAOS). These rare brain conditions affect language and speech.
Primary progressive aphasia 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 depend on the type you have.
Primary progressive apraxia of speech 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.
These conditions begin slowly and get worse over time. Because PPA and PPAOS are rare, they can be missed or mistaken for other conditions, such as stroke, dementia or anxiety.
The Primary Progressive Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, brings together experts and advanced testing to give you a fast and accurate diagnosis. There is no cure. But getting the right diagnosis early can help you start managing your symptoms sooner. Speech therapy plays a key role in treatment. Mayo Clinic speech-language pathologists are specially trained to help people with these conditions.
Team-based care
Mayo Clinic uses a multidisciplinary team approach to patient care. Experts from different specialties work together to evaluate you and create a care plan tailored to your needs. This approach ensures you get the right diagnosis and treatment faster. It also means you don’t have to make as many appointments or go to different places for care.
At the Primary Progressive Aphasia and Apraxia of Speech Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, a neurologist who specializes in speech and language conditions leads your care. 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.
Mayo Clinic Connect: Brain & Nervous System
Primary progressive aphasia (PDF)
Primary progressive apraxia of speech (PDF)
Expert diagnosis
Primary progressive aphasia and apraxia of speech are often hard to diagnose. Their symptoms can look like those of other, more common 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 also may include:
Your team listens to your concerns, reviews your test results and works together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs. If you receive a diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia or apraxia of speech, speech therapy may be part of your care. Mayo Clinic speech-language pathologists can help you keep the communication abilities you have for as long as possible. They can help you find new ways to express yourself and prepare for the future.
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.
La sede de Mayo Clinic en Rochester (Minnesota) se encuentra entre los mejores hospitales especializados en neurología, neurocirugía y rehabilitación, según la clasificación de 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.
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 a specialist in the Department of Neurology by your primary care professional or you also may make an appointment without a referral.
Contact
Nov. 08, 2025