Last modified: 2014-04-03
Abstract
Introduction: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common co morbidity experienced by children with epilepsy (CWE) , and has a negative impact on their social functioning, quality of life, and represents a significant risk factor for academic underachievement.1
Purpose: To assess the prevalence of ADHD and its characteristics and risk factors, in children with epilepsy.
Methods: Consecutive cases of active epilepsy, aged 6-12 years, were assessed for ADHD using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fourth edition-Text Revision 2 criteria. Exclusion criteria comprised an Intelligence quotient of 70 or less, associated other chronic disease. Children with co-morbid ADHD were compared with those who did not have it.
Results: Among 74 children (39 males and 25 females) with epilepsy, 17(22.9%) were diagnosed with ADHD. Of these 17 patients, 10 (58.8%) had ADHD predominantly inattentive type, 6 (35.3%) had ADHD combined and 1(5.9%) had ADHD predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type. On univariate analysis male gender, epileptiform discharges on EEG and borderline intellectual functioning were associated with ADHD (p<0.05). On multivariate logistic regression only borderline intellectual functioning independently predicted ADHD (odds ratio 13.0; 95% CI 3.7 – 87.6; p< 0.001).
Conclusion : The demonstrated high frequency of ADHD in CWE suggests that pediatrician and pediatric neurologists should be sensitive to identification of ADHD in CWE.
Keywords
References
1.Dunn DW, Kronenberger WG. Childhood epilepsy, attention problems, and ADHD: Review and practical considerations. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2005;12:222-8.
2.American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th ed, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association; 2000.