[Relationship between serum ferritin levels and susceptibility to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in

Li-Na Tan1, Hai-Yan Wei, Yao-Dong Zhang

  • 1Zhengzhou Children's Hospital, Zhengzhou, China.

Insights

This meta-analysis found a significant association between serum ferritin levels and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, suggesting ferritin may impact ADHD susceptibility.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Biochemistry

Context:

  • Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in children.
  • Serum ferritin, an indicator of iron storage, has been investigated for its potential role in various neurological conditions.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the association between serum ferritin levels and the susceptibility to childhood ADHD.
  • To synthesize evidence from existing studies using meta-analysis.

Summary:

  • A meta-analysis of five control studies (258 ADHD cases, 138 controls) was conducted.
  • Significant heterogeneity was observed, necessitating a random-effects model analysis.
  • The pooled odds ratio indicated a strong association between serum ferritin levels and childhood ADHD susceptibility (OR = -23.09, P < 0.00001).

Impact:

  • Findings suggest serum ferritin levels are linked to ADHD susceptibility in children.
  • This highlights the potential role of iron metabolism in ADHD pathogenesis.
  • Further research into iron supplementation or monitoring may be warranted for ADHD management.
Abstract