Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common and thoroughly researched neuropsychiatric disorder affecting children and adolescents. The prevalence of ADHD ranges from 8 to 12% in school-age children, and 70% of these individuals continue to meet DSM-5 criteria for the disorder in adolescence. ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys compared with girls. ADHD is chronic, with prominent symptoms and impairment in family, social, and academic functioning. ADHD is often associated with comorbid disorders, including disruptive, mood, and anxiety disorders, and can increase the risk of developing substance use disorders. The diagnosis of ADHD requires a comprehensive clinical assessment, including a detailed history, clinical interview, and collateral information, and is clinically established by review of symptoms and impairment and having established a developmental history of the symptoms. The biological underpinning of the disorder is supported by genetic, neuroimaging, neurochemistry, and neuropsychological data. Treatment should attend to developmental milestones of the child and include family and individual psychosocial interventions. Psychosocial interventions in combination with medication are helpful for ADHD and comorbid problems. Pharmacotherapy, including psychostimulants, noradrenergic agents, alpha agonists, and antidepressants, plays a fundamental role in the treatment and management of ADHD. This review contains 2 figures, 9 tables, and 114 references. Key words: attention, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, comorbidity, hyperactivity, impulsivity, learning, nonstimulants, psychosocial, psychostimulants, treatment