Is there a relationship between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and bipolar disorder?

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Psychiatry
• Genetics

Background:

• Growing recognition of adult ADHD and childhood psychotic disorders fuels interest in ADHD and bipolar disorder (BP) links.
• Existing research presents a complex picture of the relationship between these two conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the scientific literature on the potential relationship between bipolar disorder and ADHD.
• To examine evidence from various study types, including clinico-epidemiological, follow-up, family, and laboratory investigations.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of clinico-epidemiological studies.
• Analysis of follow-up, family, neuroimaging, neuropsychology, and genetic studies.
• Critical evaluation of methodological strengths and limitations in existing research.

Main Results:

• Diagnostic categories for bipolar disorder and ADHD appear distinct.
• Evidence suggests a potential relationship between certain ADHD symptoms and manic-like symptoms.
• Methodological limitations in current research hinder definitive conclusions.

Conclusions:

• The relationship between bipolar disorder and ADHD is not fully understood.
• Further high-quality research is needed to clarify the overlap and potential links between ADHD and manic symptoms.
• Rectifying methodological issues is crucial for future research in this area.