Article Text
Community child health, public health, and epidemiology
Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder, methylphenidate, and epilepsy
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterised by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. The DSM-IV diagnosis of ADHD requires the presence of six of nine items or features that must have been present for at least six months, to have had an onset before 7 years of age, and to have resulted in significant distress or impairment.1 In the general population, the prevalence of ADHD is approximately 5%.2 There is a high co-morbidity of epilepsy and attentional and behavioural problems,3,4 including ADHD, and it has been estimated that at least 20% of patients with epilepsy may present with features of ADHD.5
- ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- AED, antiepileptic activity
- CAE, childhood onset absence epilepsy
- EEG, electroencephalogram
- attention deficit
- hyperactivity
- epilepsy
- methylphenidate