Medical mimics. Medical and neurological conditions simulating ADHD
P L Pearl1, R E Weiss, M A Stein
1Department of Pediatrics and Neurology, George Washington University School of Medicine and Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20010, USA.
This review covers medical conditions mimicking Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and its common comorbidities. It highlights ADHD
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be mimicked by various medical and neurological conditions.
- ADHD frequently co-occurs with other disorders, complicating diagnosis.
- Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings, including brain regions and neural networks, is crucial for ADHD research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review medical and neurological conditions that simulate ADHD.
- To discuss disorders commonly comorbid with ADHD.
- To outline a comprehensive medical evaluation approach for ADHD, including laboratory studies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of medical and neurological conditions associated with ADHD.
- Analysis of neurobiological theories regarding ADHD pathogenesis.
- Guideline development for comprehensive medical evaluation of ADHD patients.
Main Results:
- Several medical and neurological conditions can present similarly to ADHD.
- Thyroid disorders, including resistance to thyroid hormone, are discussed as potential mimics or comorbidities.
- A comprehensive evaluation emphasizing early, pervasive symptoms and excluding other causes is recommended.
Conclusions:
- Accurate ADHD diagnosis requires ruling out other conditions and considering comorbidities.
- Neuroimaging and neural network theories provide insights into ADHD pathophysiology.
- Tailored laboratory testing based on clinical suspicion is essential for a thorough ADHD assessment.
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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
