Resting state brain oscillations and symptom profiles in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder
Robert J Barry1, Adam R Clarke
1Brain & Behaviour Research Institute and School of Psychology, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia. robert_barry@uow.edu.au
Supplements to Clinical Neurophysiology
|September 24, 2013
Summary
Resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) reveals brain dynamics in attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD). Findings challenge the hypo-arousal theory and link EEG patterns to AD/HD symptom severity.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Clinical Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Resting-state electroencephalogram (EEG) offers insights into cognitive and perceptual processing.
- Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) research has explored EEG anomalies, including power, coherence, and event-related potentials (ERPs).
- A key focus has been clarifying EEG correlates of arousal and its potential dysfunction in AD/HD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify consistent EEG anomalies in individuals with AD/HD compared to controls.
- To investigate the relationship between EEG differences and existing AD/HD models.
- To explore the functional significance of EEG measures, particularly the theta/beta ratio, and their link to arousal and symptom profiles.
Main Methods:
- Examined resting-state EEG power and coherence, and event-related potentials (ERPs) in children, adolescents, and adults with AD/HD.
- Compared EEG measures between AD/HD subjects and normal control groups.
- Analyzed relationships between prestimulus EEG states and ERP outcomes.
- Correlated resting-state EEG anomalies with AD/HD symptom profiles (inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity).
Main Results:
- Findings challenge the notion that an elevated theta/beta ratio in AD/HD indicates hypo-arousal.
- Reduced resting EEG gamma power correlated with increased inattention scores.
- Reduced left lateralized and frontal interhemispheric EEG coherences correlated negatively with inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity scores, respectively.
Conclusions:
- Resting-state EEG provides a valuable tool for understanding the neural underpinnings of AD/HD.
- Specific EEG patterns, such as reduced gamma power and altered coherence, are linked to core AD/HD symptoms.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the functional significance of EEG anomalies and their role in AD/HD pathophysiology.
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.
01:23Brain Waves
Brain waves are electrical signals generated by the neurons in the brain, which are regularly monitored to measure mental activities. Brain waves and their frequency ranges can be measured using an electroencephalogram or EEG. There are four main types of brain waves, each with distinct characteristics: