A specific learning disorder (SLD), according to the DSM-5, is a selective impairment in reading, mathematics, or writing, but the child will have average or even above average intelligence.

Dyslexia:

• characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and can also include poor spelling and decoding skills

Differential diagnosis for a child with learning difficulties:

• visual or hearing impairments
• Underlying conditions like sleep apnoea or hypothyroidism causing fatigue
• poor nutrition or mood disorders may affect focus
• Poor learning environment
• Genetic syndromes - Neurofibromatosis type 1, 22q deletion syndrome (diGeorge)
• Neuro - absence seizures or tumours

Assessment

• First check vision and hearing
• Rule out other causes such as nutritional deficiencies and sleep apnoa
• Psychoeducational testing to compare IQ to scholastic abilities by an educational psychologist
• Genetic testing if indicated