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Published on: April 1, 2018
Neurobiological Convergence in SPDs and ADHD: Insights from a Narrative Review
Daniele Corbo1, Laura Clara Grandi2
1Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
Insights
Sensory processing disorders (SPDs) affect children
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Sensory processing disorders (SPDs) impact 5-13% of young children, affecting development and daily functioning.
- Despite research, the neurobiological basis of SPDs is unclear, with a lack of reliable biomarkers.
- Overlapping symptoms with ADHD lead to frequent misdiagnosis and treatment challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize current research on the neurofunctional and molecular aspects of SPDs.
- To compare SPDs with ADHD, highlighting shared and distinct neurobiological pathways.
- To clarify diagnostic distinctions and inform targeted interventions for SPDs.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of existing literature.
- Comparison of neuroimaging and neurophysiological findings in SPDs and ADHD.
- Analysis of molecular and behavioral data.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests shared neurobiological mechanisms between SPDs and ADHD.
- Distinct pathways also exist, crucial for differential diagnosis.
- Current diagnostic criteria and biomarkers for SPDs require refinement.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of SPDs is critical for accurate diagnosis.
- Differentiating SPDs from ADHD requires careful consideration of converging and diverging pathways.
- Further research is needed to develop targeted interventions and biomarkers for SPDs.
Abstract:
The sensory system plays a critical role in development, as it enables the processing and integration of internal and external stimuli. Dysfunctions in this system lead to sensory processing disorders (SPDs), which affect approximately 5-13% of children aged 4-6 years, impacting not only sensory responsiveness but also social interaction, emotional regulation, motor coordination, learning, attention, communication, and sleep. Although SPDs have been extensively investigated from molecular to behavioral levels, their underlying neurobiological mechanisms remain debated, and reliable biomarkers are still lacking. Moreover, due to overlapping behavioral manifestations, SPDs are frequently misdiagnosed as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), leading to challenges in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence on the neurofunctional and molecular underpinnings of SPDs in relation to ADHD, providing an integrated perspective on their converging and diverging pathways. By comparing neuroimaging and neurophysiological findings across the two conditions, we seek to deepen understanding of their shared mechanisms, clarify diagnostic boundaries, and inform the development of targeted, evidence-based interventions to address a critical gap in the field.
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