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ADHD in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood

Publication at First Faculty of Medicine |
2016

Abstract

The article presents clear information on the topic of ADHD, or hyperkinetic conduct disorder and attention disorder, DSM-V, ICD-10. The fundamental condition is attention disorder that is determined biologically (genetically or perinatally).

These aetiological factors cause a relatively precisely defined developmental change in the CNS that mainly involves the prefrontal cortex and basal ganglia, is accompanied by deficiency of the dopamine and noradrenaline neurotransmitters, and this deficiency is very successfully managed by administering stimulants or atomoxetine. The developmental issues are defined by various trajectories of symptom regression, some of which are merely hypothetical (symptom regression at preschool age or around ten years of age), while others are unquestionable, during puberty and early adulthood.

Both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments are of importance. Inadequate care often results in the development of serious comorbid conditions, including drug addiction.

The disorder occurs in preschoolers, schoolchildren, adolescents, and, in part of the patients, in adulthood. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder, the best-studied condition in psychiatry, particularly in terms of the biological substrate of the CNS, and one with very successful pharmacotherapy.