Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults with epilepsy: Preliminary prevalence and associated factors in a...

This study investigated the prevalence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms in Czech adult people with epilepsy (PWE) and examined factors potentially contributing to the co-occurrence of these two conditions. Although previous research has consistently reported elevated rates of ADHD in epilepsy populations, data from adult samples in Czech Republic remain limited.

Fifty-six adults with epilepsy completed validated self-report questionnaires assessing ADHD symptoms (ASRS), anxiety (GAD-2), and depression (NDDIE-2). Epilepsy-related clinical factors, such as seizure frequency, anti-seizure medication (ASM), type of epilepsy and epilepsy duration, were also analyzed in relation to ADHD symptoms.

A high prevalence of ADHD symptoms n = 25 (44.6 %) was found in the sample. No significant associations were observed between ADHD symptoms and epilepsy-related variables or depressive symptoms, but a regression model of clinical and sociodemographic variables can explain 34.2 % of the variance in ASRS scores (Adj. R² = 0.342), with only anxiety emerging as a significant predictor (β = 0.517, SE = 0.50, t = 3.23, p = .003).

These preliminary findings suggest a possible link between epilepsy and ADHD, which may be further explored in future research through shared emotional or neurobiological mechanisms. The results underscore the need for integrated screening approaches and further research into the co-occurrence of epilepsy and ADHD in adult populations.