A.D.H.D

Question 1

What is ADHD?

-triad?

Answer 1

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder:
co-occruing cluster of imparting symptoms relating to self regulation

Triad: inattention
hyperactivity
impulsivity

Question 2

Diagnostic criteria?

Answer 2

for combined type ADHD:
triad of difficulties
developmentally inappropriate
impairing 
pervasive
longstanding 

ADD more prominent in girls

Question 3

Comorbid difficulties? (6)

Answer 3

social communication difficulties 
LD
Attachment difficulties 
Mood and anxiety problems 
Behavioural disorder 
Substance use

Question 4

impact on life?

Answer 4

social
academic
self worth
interpersonal
Family burden 
-----> high crime rates, substance misuse and psychiatric disorder in adulthood

Question 5

Pathophysiology?

Answer 5

dysfunction of:
mesolimbic reward circuits
fronto cerebellar circuits
Dopaminergic and noradrenergic abnormalities in fronto/striatal pathways
temporal lobe, amygdala/hippocampal circuits

also genetic component

Question 6

Hx?

examination?

Answer 6

parent and school reports 
screening Questionnaires
ADHD rating scale
risk information: fam hx, socioeconomic status
review differentials 

working memory will be affected

Question 7

Treatment for ADHD

• psychological? (2)
• pharmacological? (3)

Answer 7

-1st line: parent training, behavioural management in classroom

2nd line: social skills training, sleep and diet

-1st line: Methylphenidate (ritalin)

2nd line: Atomoxetine

3rd line: Antidepressants
Antihypertensives
Antipsychotics