Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Children: Clinical Profile and Co-morbidity
C Venkatesh1, T Ravikumar, A Andal
1Department of Pediatrics, Kanchi Kamakoti Childs Trust Hospital, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.
Insights
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Indian children often presents with delayed speech and language. Most children diagnosed with ADHD also have co-occurring conditions, particularly learning disabilities.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Child Psychiatry
- Developmental Pediatrics
Background:
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in children.
- Understanding the clinical profile and co-morbidities in Indian children with ADHD is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical characteristics of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in Indian children.
- To identify co-occurring conditions and sociodemographic factors associated with ADHD in this population.
Main Methods:
- A prospective analytical study was conducted over two years at a pediatric tertiary care hospital.
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV (DSM-IV) based questionnaires were used for diagnosis.
Main Results:
- Out of 251 referrals, 51 children (20.3%) were diagnosed with ADHD, with a male-to-female ratio of 6.3:1.
- Combined type ADHD was most common. 86.3% of children had at least one co-morbid diagnosis, most frequently learning disability.
- Delayed speech and language development were common, with a mean IQ of 90.
Conclusions:
- Early indicators such as delayed speech, language, and social development may suggest ADHD in children.
- Comprehensive understanding of sociodemographic profiles and co-morbidities is essential for planning effective ADHD therapies.
Background:
To study the clinical profile and co-morbidity in Indian children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Materials And Methods:
A prospective analytical study of 2 years duration at the Child Guidance Clinic of a pediatric tertiary care hospital in a south Indian city using Diagnostic and statistical manual of Mental Disorders-1V based questionnaires.
Results:
Of the 251 referrals, 51 (20.3%) children met the inclusion criteria for the diagnosis of ADHD. M:F ratio was 6.3:1. The mean age was 5.7 years. A majority of the children belonged to middle and lower socio-economic class and were first-born children. Most children were brought up in nuclear families. History of delayed speech and language development was commonly seen in these children. Combined type of ADHD was the most common type. At least one co-morbid diagnosis was seen in 86.3% of children, and learning disability was the most common co-morbid diagnosis. The mean IQ was 90 (SD±12).
Conclusion:
Early markers of cognitive dysfunction like delayed speech, language and social and adaptive development may be a pointer towards the diagnosis of ADHD in children. Knowledge about their sociodemographic profile and other co-morbid conditions that are associated with ADHD is necessary to fully understand the magnitude of the problem and to plan effective therapy for them.
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