Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in childhood epilepsy
1Research and Psychology Department, National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy, St Piers Lane, Lingfield, Surrey, RH76PW, United Kingdom. colin.reilly@ucdconnect.ie
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|February 12, 2011
Summary
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and epilepsy frequently co-occur in children. Children with both conditions face increased risks for developmental and quality-of-life challenges, necessitating further research into safe treatments.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neurology
- Child Psychology
Background:
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and epilepsy are prevalent childhood disorders with potential negative impacts on development.
- Co-occurrence of ADHD and epilepsy is observed, with ADHD prevalence in childhood epilepsy estimated at 12-17%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between ADHD and epilepsy in children.
- To discuss the implications of co-occurrence and current treatment approaches for ADHD in children with epilepsy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of population studies and published research on ADHD and epilepsy co-occurrence.
- Analysis of ADHD subtypes, prevalence rates, and risk factors in children with epilepsy.
Main Results:
- ADHD, particularly the inattentive subtype, is more common in children with epilepsy.
- Children with both epilepsy and ADHD face higher risks for adverse academic and quality-of-life outcomes.
- Methylphenidate is the primary psychopharmacological treatment studied, though its effect on seizure threshold remains debated.
Conclusions:
- Children with epilepsy are at significant risk for ADHD, requiring careful assessment and management.
- There is a need for further research into safe and effective interventions for ADHD symptoms in children with epilepsy, especially those with co-occurring intellectual disability.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:22Epilepsy ll: Types
Recurrent seizures, stemming from abnormal electrical activity in the brain, are the defining characteristic of epilepsy, a chronic neurological condition. Because seizure features vary greatly, epilepsy is classified using two systems: by seizure type and by epilepsy syndromes. These classifications enable clinicians to describe seizure patterns and select suitable treatment strategies.I. Classification by Seizure Type1. Focal EpilepsyFocal epilepsy begins in one hemisphere of the brain.
01:24Epilepsy and Seizures: Overview
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease marked by recurrent, unpredictable seizures. These seizures are caused by abnormal electrical discharges in the brain, leading to behavior, sensation, or consciousness alterations. They can also cause transient impairment of awareness, interfering with daily activities.
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
Various factors can trigger epilepsy, including genetic factors, brain damage, metabolic causes, and unknown etiology. Diagnosis of epilepsy involves electroencephalography (EEG), which...
01:13Seizures: Classification
Epilepsy is primarily characterized by unpredictable seizures, either provoked by an identifiable factor, such as injury or illness, or unprovoked, occurring spontaneously without apparent cause.
Seizures are typically classified into two main categories: focal and generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures originate from specific regions of the brain. These seizures are further sub-classified into two types:
Seizures are typically classified into two main categories: focal and generalized seizures.
Focal Seizures
Focal seizures originate from specific regions of the brain. These seizures are further sub-classified into two types:
01:20Seizures l: Introduction
Understanding seizures and epilepsy relies on key definitions that help in recognizing, classifying, and managing these disorders. These definitions provide a framework for recognizing, classifying, and managing seizure disorders.DefinitionsA seizure is a sudden, abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in awareness, movement, sensation, or behavior, depending on the area involved. Epilepsy is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures,...
01:14Antiepileptic Drugs: Glutamate Antagonists
Glutamate is a fundamental neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, playing a vital role in neuronal communication and various cognitive processes. Glutamate stands as the principal excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain. Its presence is crucial for the communication between neurons, underpinning essential processes such as synaptic transmission, neuronal excitability, and plasticity. These functions are vital for higher-order cognitive processes, including learning and memory. The...