How to Diagnose and Treat ADHD: New AAP Guidelines

What we now call attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was first described by the eminent British physician Dr. George Still in 1902; the diagnosis still . . .

What we now call attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was first described by the eminent British physician Dr. George Still in 1902; the diagnosis still rests on history taking. Clinicians must gather relevant information on the child's medical, behavioral, and educational history from parents, caregivers, and teachers and determine whether the diagnostic criteria are met. Because of inherent ambiguity, inconsistency in the diagnostic process can occur. The DSM-IV criteria published in 1994 improved this process. Another giant step forward occurred in May 2000 with the publication of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines for the diagnosis and evaluation of ADHD.

These guidelines recommend that:

Children 6 to 12 years …

Reviewing Author

Harlan R. Gephart, MD