Correlation Between Symptoms of Voiding Dysfunction and Attention Deficit Disorder With Hyperactivity in Children With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms

Abstract

We clarified correlations between symptoms of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity and voiding dysfunction in children. The study sample consisted of 92 boys and 38 girls 4 to 14 years old who presented at pediatric urology clinics with untreated lower urinary tract symptoms. Parents completed the Swanson, Nolan and Pelham-IV scale. Each subject with a combined score in the first 2 subscales (inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity) at or above the 90th percentile was classified as having symptoms of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity. All other cases were classified as nonattention deficit disorder. Voiding dysfunction symptoms were assessed by the Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Scale. Sleep quality was assessed by the Pediatric Sleep Questionnaire. We then analyzed correlations between Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Scale and symptoms of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity. The group with symptoms of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity had significantly higher scores on the Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Scale overall and in the "cannot wait" subscale compared to the group without attention deficit disorder, as well as poorer sleep quality and lower voiding volumes. Overall Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Scale scores were significantly correlated with overall Swanson, Nolan and Pelham-IV scale scores and also significantly correlated with each of the 3 Swanson, Nolan and Pelham-IV subscales (inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity and oppositional defiant). Overall Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Scale scores and scores on the "cannot wait" and "hurt when pee" subscales were significantly higher for males than for females. Boys with higher scores of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity symptoms tend to have higher Dysfunctional Voiding Symptom Scale scores. Lower urinary tract symptoms were significantly correlated with overall Swanson, Nolan and Pelham-IV scores and significantly correlated with each of the 3 subscales. Evaluation of concomitant symptoms of attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity in children with lower urinary tract symptoms is an important clinical concern.