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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be a highly inflammation and immune-associated disease (Review)
Rong-Yi Zhou1, Jiao-Jiao Wang1, Ji-Chao Sun1
1First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210023, P.R. China.
Insights
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be linked to immune system dysfunction and inflammation. This research explores the potential connection between ADHD and allergic diseases, suggesting new avenues for understanding its causes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Immunology
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Background:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent behavioral disorder.
- Existing research suggests links between ADHD and genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.
- A notable observation in China is the co-occurrence of ADHD with allergic rhinitis or asthma in many children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential association between ADHD and allergic diseases.
- To test the hypothesis that ADHD is a high inflammation and immune-associated disorder.
- To explore immune system disorders as a potential component of ADHD etiology.
Main Methods:
- Clinical observations of children with ADHD and allergic conditions.
- Review of previous studies on ADHD and allergic diseases.
- Design of future clinical and animal experiments to validate the hypothesis.
Main Results:
- Children with ADHD and allergic conditions exhibit increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.
- Respiratory infections can exacerbate ADHD symptoms or lead to recurrence.
- Previous studies indicate a close association between ADHD and allergic diseases.
Conclusions:
- ADHD may be closely associated with allergic diseases and immune system disorders.
- Immune system dysfunction could represent a novel aspect of ADHD etiology.
- This research may inform future clinical practices for managing ADHD.
Abstract:
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common behavioral disorder. Previous research has indicated that genetic factors, family education, environment and dietary habits are associated with ADHD. It has been determined that in China many children with ADHD also have allergic rhinitis or asthma. These children are more susceptible to the common cold or upper respiratory infections compared with normal healthy children. Additionally, the common cold or an upper respiratory infection may lead to disease recurrence or worsen the symptoms in these children. Previous studies have determined that ADHD may have a close association with allergic disease. Based on the clinically observed phenomenon and previous studies, it was hypothesized that ADHD is a high inflammation and immune‑associated disease. Therefore, the authors designed clinical and animal experiments to test this hypothesis in the future. Immune system disorders may be a novel part of the etiology of ADHD. The current report may have implications for future clinical practice.
