Distinct brain structural abnormalities in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and substance use disorders: A
Yajing Long1,2,3, Nanfang Pan1,2,3, Shiyu Ji1,2,3,4
1Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), Department of Radiology, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Translational Psychiatry
|September 6, 2022
Summary
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) show distinct brain structural abnormalities in adolescents and young adults. These differences in gray matter volume may indicate separate underlying causes and aid in differential diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Radiology
Background:
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and substance use disorders (SUDs) are prevalent in adolescence and early adulthood.
- These disorders frequently co-occur and share neuropsychological deficits.
- Understanding shared and distinct neurobiological underpinnings is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify overlapping and distinct brain structural abnormalities in adolescents and young adults with ADHD and SUDs.
- To compare gray matter volume (GMV) differences between ADHD and SUDs groups.
- To explore potential implications for pathogenesis and clinical differentiation.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of voxel-based morphometry (VBM) studies in PubMed and Web of Science.
- Data extraction and analysis using Seed-based d-Mapping software.
- Inclusion of 13 VBM studies for ADHD (619 patients) and 14 for SUDs (516 patients).
Main Results:
- ADHD group showed decreased GMV in left precentral, bilateral superior frontal, and left inferior frontal gyri.
- SUDs group exhibited increased GMV in the left putamen and insula.
- ADHD group had larger right inferior parietal lobule GMV and smaller left putamen/precentral gyrus volumes compared to the SUDs group.
Conclusions:
- Distinct patterns of brain structural abnormalities exist between ADHD and SUDs in young individuals.
- These dissociable findings suggest different pathogeneses for ADHD and SUDs.
- The results offer a reference for differential diagnosis and early detection of these comorbid conditions.
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