ADHD Flashcards
Where does ADHD lives?
- The pre frontal cortex
- that is where working memory comes from
What age does the PFC finish myelinating?
-25 years old
Is there a strong genetic influence for ADHD?
- hell yes!
- gneetic imbalance in DA and noradrenergic systems…. several genes play a role
Subtypes of ADHD
- Predominately inattentive type
- predominatley hyperactive-impulsive- start at 4 yr, max 6-8 yr
- combined type is the most common **
Diagnositc criteria- inattention
- careless mistakes
- difficulty sustaining attention
- does not seem to listen
- does not follow through on tasks
- not organized
- avoids sustained mental effort
- loses things
- is easily distracted
Diagnositc Criteria- hyperactivity/impulsivity
- fidgets or squirms
- inappropriately leaves seat
- inappropriately runs or climbs
- has difficulty playing quietly
- is “on the go”
- talks excessively
- blurts out answers
What is the “filter in our brain”
-the PFC
Is ADHD a chronic illness?
-yes
Diagnositc evaluation for ADHD
- child’s hx and functioning
- family hx and functioning
- school information
- rating scales- parent and teacher
- interview and physical exam of child
- consider psychological/educational evaulation
- computer diagnositc: TOVA, IVA-CPT
What do we do for medical tx of adhd?
- Monitor or treat co-morbidities
- educate pt and family
- set goals with family and school
- ADHD is a chronic disorder…. 65% of children with ADHD will have sx as adolexcents
What is the most effective tx for ADHD?
- medication!
- good behavior management program
- 70-80% of children will respond to stimulants
What are some common stimulant side eects?
- decreased appetite- give with or after meals
- difficulty falling asleep
- tics
- stomachaches, give with food
- headaches
What is the movement center in the brain that is associated with tics… involuntary movements?
-the caudate!!!
What are the stimulants?
- methyphenidate products
- D-MPH
- D-amphetamine
- Mixed salts
Cardiac warnings
- don’t use stimulant if heart disease
- concern about patients with undiagnosed heart disease and long term effects
- EEF not needed if cardiac hx is negative