Abstract
ADHD stands for a group of genetically transmitted neurobiological dysfunctions, which lower the ability of the affected person to aim and keep one's attention, adjust activity and master impulses. From the world-wide perspective, the prevalence of ADHD in adults ranges from 2,5 to 4,3 %.
The ADHD dysfunction prevails into adulthood for 15 % of children; whereas 50 % are only affected by some of the symptoms. In the population of addictive substance users, there is a higher frequency of the presence of the ADHD, than among the non-users.
The adults affected by the ADHD who use addictive substances are also at a higher risk of becoming affected by another psychiatric disorder, as opposed to those who have only been diagnosed with one of these disorders. The diagnosis of ADHD in adulthood is generally based on the clinical picture of the dysfunction and its developmental characteristics.
However, if the patient uses addictive substances (especially stimulants and alcohol) or if we suspect they do, we suggest adding a thoroughly carried out drug anamnesis (it is, for example, advisable to use the EuropAsi and MAP questionnaires); or, as the case may be, the patient can be examined, or the examination can be repeated, after at least 30 days of abstinence (nevertheless, in case of some residue, such as metamphetamine residue, this time may not be sufficient). For the right diagnosis, it might be helpful to get the case history and information from the close relatives of the patient, as well as to, for instance, conduct a toxicology screen and check.
For the broader diagnosis, it is of course necessary to assess the overall psychological and psychiatric profile of the patient. The two following factors can primarily affect the process of the diagnosis and the misrepresentation of the result among addicted patients.