Abstract
BackgroundAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients have many comorbidities. Narcoleptic patients have a big prevalence of ADHD (15%-30%). Both groups suffer from similar symptoms and benefit from the same class of medications. As such, narcolepsy could be masked in ADHD patients. Low serum ferritin has been found both in ADHD patients as well as in patients with narcolepsy.Materials & methodsWe enrolled 26 participants (14 ADHD patients and 12 controls). They answered several questionnaires, and blood samples were obtained from 20 participants. We had clear exclusion criteria.ResultsUsing the Ullanlinna Narcolepsy Scale (UNS), we identified three possible narcolepsy patients within the ADHD group and no suspects in the control group. There was a statistically significant negative correlation between serum iron levels and ADHD symptom severity. No correlation was found measuring serum ferritin levels.ConclusionsNarcolepsy may be more common within ADHD patients than in the general population. Some of these patients could benefit from a change in medication. Low serum iron and ferritin levels could be relevant in ADHD pathophysiology. This requires further exploratory research.
Highlights
Epidemiology of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)ADHD is a psychiatric disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 7.2%, according to a meta-analysis [1]
Using the Ullanlinna Narcolepsy Scale (UNS), we identified three possible narcolepsy patients within the ADHD group and no suspects in the control group
Narcolepsy may be more common within ADHD patients than in the general population
Summary
Epidemiology of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)ADHD is a psychiatric disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness, with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 7.2%, according to a meta-analysis [1]. The pathophysiology of ADHD is not yet fully understood, but it has been proposed that problems could occur because of hypoactive monoaminergic neurons, which project to the prefrontal cortex This hypothesis has been founded on the phenomenon where the prefrontal cortical functions of ADHD patients are briefly hypoactive [4]. Catecholamines (dopamine and noradrenaline) bind to their respective receptors on astrocytes inducing glycogenolysis [5] This results in elevated glucose concentrations and lactate production. Reduced catecholamine levels could cause lower lactate concentrations and less energy in the neurons. This lack of energy could be the reason behind the reduced prefrontal cortical function [4]. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) patients have many comorbidities. Low serum ferritin has been found both in ADHD patients as well as in patients with narcolepsy
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