If a patient has an episode of garbled speech, which area of the brain is likely affected?

The left hemisphere of the brain is primarily responsible for language functions in most right-handed individuals and many left-handed individuals as well. This includes areas such as Broca's area and Wernicke's area, which are crucial for speech production and comprehension, respectively. When a patient experiences garbled speech, it often indicates a disruption in these areas, suggesting that the left hemisphere is likely affected.

Conditions such as aphasia, which can manifest as garbled or incoherent speech, are commonly linked to damage in this region. While other regions of the brain can contribute to communication, the left hemisphere holds the primary responsibility for language processing. Understanding this distinction helps in assessing neurological conditions related to speech and language.