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9.2 - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

from 9 - Integrated Neurobiology of Specific Syndromes and Treatments

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  08 November 2023

By
Marina Mitjans  and
Bru Cormand
Edited by
Mary-Ellen Lynall ,
Peter B. Jones  and
Stephen M. Stahl
Mary-Ellen Lynall
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
Peter B. Jones
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge
Stephen M. Stahl
Affiliation:
University of California, San Diego
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Summary

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a childhood-onset disorder with a prevalence of 5%. It is clinically defined by symptoms of inattention, motor hyperactivity and impulsivity. In addition to the core symptoms, it has also been associated with impairment in cognitive domains. ADHD is highly heritable and multifactorial in origin; multiple genes and non-inherited factors contribute to the aetiology of the disorder. ADHD has been associated with slower maturation of long white matter tracts and decreased volume in brain regions relevant for executive function, sustained attention, impulse suppression and regulation of motor activity. In addition to structural brain changes, a range of brain networks and dysregulation of neurotransmitter signalling have also been associated with ADHD. However, no diagnostic neurobiological markers are currently available for clinical use.

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Chapter
Information
Cambridge Textbook of Neuroscience for Psychiatrists , pp. 397 - 402
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2023

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