A pathophysiologic approach to growth problems in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
1Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, DSMSC, University of Udine, Udine 33100, Italy. altenusa@gmail.com
Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics of North America
|October 27, 2012
Insights
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatments may impact child growth. This review examines clinical and neurophysiologic data to clarify the relationship between ADHD and growth concerns.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric neurology
- Developmental psychology
- Child psychiatry
Background:
- Increasing global diagnosis and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children.
- Concerns regarding potential side effects of ADHD treatments, particularly impacts on growth.
- Need for a clearer understanding of ADHD and its influence on physical development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its effects on child growth.
- To explore the clinical and neurophysiologic mechanisms potentially linking ADHD to growth issues.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of this controversial topic.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical studies on ADHD and growth.
- Analysis of neurophysiologic data relevant to ADHD and development.
- Synthesis of existing research to address growth concerns.
Main Results:
- The review synthesizes existing data on the complex relationship between ADHD and growth.
- It highlights the need for further research into the specific mechanisms involved.
- The article addresses common concerns regarding ADHD treatment side effects on growth.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the interplay between ADHD, its treatments, and growth is crucial for effective pediatric care.
- Further clinical and neurophysiologic research is warranted to elucidate these mechanisms.
- This review aims to improve understanding and inform clinical practice regarding ADHD and growth.
Abstract:
In recent years there has been an increasing trend in the diagnosis and treatment of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) worldwide. One of the most frequently discussed side effects of these treatments is related to problems of growth. In order to better understand what ADHD is and the mechanisms by which it could affect growth, this article reviews relevant data from a clinical and neurophysiologic perspective to improve understanding of this controversial issue.
More Related Videos
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.
01:29Theoretical Approaches to Psychological Disorder
The development of psychological disorders, which are characterized by deviant, maladaptive, and personally distressing behaviors, has been explored through several theoretical approaches.
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
Biological approach
The biological approach posits that internal, organic factors are the primary causes of such disorders. This perspective emphasizes brain structure and function, genetic predispositions, and neurotransmitter imbalances. For example, schizophrenia has been associated with both genetic...
01:30Information Processing Approach
The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is also...
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:28Human Genetics
Human genetics provides a profound framework for understanding the interplay between genetic predispositions and human psychology. At the heart of this discipline lies the study of how genes influence physical traits, behaviors, and susceptibility to diseases. Each person carries a unique genetic code that subtly or significantly shapes their psychological and behavioral landscape.
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
The complex relationship between genetics and psychology is observable through common biological components such...
01:10Nature and Nurture
Many human characteristics, like height, are shaped by both nature—in other words, by our genes—and by nurture, or our environment. For example, chronic stress during childhood inhibits the production of growth hormones and consequently reduces bone growth and height. Scientists estimate that 70-90% of variation in height is due to genetic differences among individuals, and 10-30% of variation in height is due to differences in the environments that individuals experience, such as differences...