rTMS and tDCS: new hope for language in Primary Progressive Aphasia

rTMS and tDCS: new hope for language in Primary Progressive Aphasia

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Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder in which language ability gradually declines.
Classical therapies such as speech therapy can slow progression, but there is an urgent need for new treatments that can support and improve language.

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‍What was investigated

A recent review (Gobbi et al., 2025, Brain Sciences) analyzed 33 studies on the use of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) and Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in PPA.

The studies investigated these techniques:

- As a stand-alone intervention

- In combination with language therapy

- During verbal tasks without additional therapy

In total, there were 359 patients with PPA.

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Key findings

rTMS can improve language skills, including spontaneous speech, naming and reading. Some effects were maintained for up to 12—24 weeks after treatment.

tDCS also showed improvements in word finding, writing, and reading comprehension.

The combination with language therapy often gave the best results.

Both rTMS and tDCS appear to stimulate neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to make better use of language networks.

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Conclusion of the review

Non-invasive brain stimulation (rTMS and tDCS) is a promising addition to existing PPA therapies.
The results are promising, but more large-scale research is needed to standardize protocols and better understand long-term effects.

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Why is this important news?

Neuromodulation is not only a valuable treatment option for patients with PPA, but also for other patients with language disorders, both TDCS and TMS can strongly support speech therapy.