5: ADHD Flashcards
What is the triad of signs seen in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Inattention
Hyperactivity
Impulsivity
Inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity are all normal in young children.
When can a diagnosis of ADHD be made?
When signs are abnormal for a child’s age and impairing function
The triad of signs seen in ADHD must ___ a patient’s function.
impair
Behaviour seen in ADHD (inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity) are seen (in certain social situations / regardless of social context).
regardless of social context
i.e across a variety of social situations
What is the prevalence of ADHD in the population?
5%
As with ASD, ADHD has a strong ___ component.
genetic component
What are some perinatal (pre-birth) factors which are associated with a diagnosis of ADHD?
Viral illness
Substance use (alcohol, smoking and drugs)
Prematurity
Birth complications (e.g hypoxia, ARDS)
If missed during childhood, adults will likely have a presentation which falls (above / below) the diagnostic criteria for ADHD.
below diagnostic criteria
but they DO have ADHD
Which part of the brain is thought to be affected in ADHD?
Frontal lobe
What is the function of the frontal lobe?
Executive function
(decision making, judgement…
The levels of which neurotransmitters are reduced in ADHD?
Dopamine
Serotonin
Noradrenaline
What is the diagnostic criteria for diagnosing ADHD in
a) children
b) adults?
a) 6+ inattention symptoms AND 6+ hyperactivity/impulsivity symptoms before the age of 5
b) 5+ “” AND 5+ ““ (lower threshold as symptoms lessen with age)
Both affecting daily function
In the diagnosis of ADHD, it is important that symptoms have an effect on the patient’s ___ ___.
daily function
Before drugs are considered, what therapies can be used to manage ADHD?
Psychoeducation (for parents and patient)
Social skills training
Sleep hygiene
Dietary changes (avoid stimulants)
Which drugs are used first line to treat ADHD?
Can you name an example?
How do they work?
Stimulant drugs
Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
Block dopamine and NA reuptake, increasing levels in the frontal cortex
