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Brain function and structure in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.
Larry J Seidman1, Eve M Valera, George Bush
1Pediatric Psychopharmacology Unit, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA. larry_seidman@hms.harvard.edu
The Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|April 6, 2004
Summary
Brain dysfunction is central to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. This review examines structural and functional brain abnormalities in adults with ADHD, referencing child literature for context.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is increasingly recognized in adults.
- Brain dysfunctions are implicated in childhood ADHD, with growing evidence for adult ADHD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current literature on structural and functional brain abnormalities in adults with ADHD.
- To contextualize adult ADHD findings with existing research on childhood ADHD.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cross-sectional studies.
- Synthesis of findings on brain abnormalities in adult ADHD.
- Inclusion of summaries from childhood ADHD literature.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests structural and functional brain abnormalities are present in adults with ADHD.
- Childhood ADHD literature provides a foundation for understanding adult ADHD brain differences.
Conclusions:
- Brain abnormalities are a key feature of ADHD across the lifespan.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the neurobiological underpinnings of adult ADHD.