An 8-year-old girl of average intelligence struggles in school despite good teaching and adequate effort. She reads far below grade level, confuses 'b' and 'd', and omits small words when reading aloud. Her mathematics and spoken language are age appropriate, and there are no attention or behavior problems. What is the most likely diagnosis?

• A Intellectual disability
• B Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
• C Specific learning disorder (dyslexia) ✓
• D Autism spectrum disorder

Explanation

Reading achievement substantially below what is expected for age and intelligence, with letter reversals and omissions, in a child of normal IQ defines dyslexia, the commonest specific learning disorder. Intellectual disability is excluded by her average intelligence, and the absence of inattention, hyperactivity, or social communication deficits rules out ADHD and autism. Specific learning disorders require remedial educational support rather than medication.

Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.