Diagnostic Stability of ADHD in Young Children

Predictors of diagnostic stability in a referral population of children <7 years were externalizing and internalizing symptoms, lower nonverbal score, psychopathology in a parent, and low family socioeconomic status.

Behaviors in typical preschool-age children can be misinterpreted as symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The American Academy of Pediatrics ADHD practice guideline recommends evaluation of hyperactive and inattentive children starting at age 4 years (NEJM JW Pediatr Adolesc Med Nov 16 2011). An important clinical question is: What is the diagnostic stability of ADHD in young children? To find out, researchers followed 120 referred children (age range, 3–6 years, 11 months) who received a diagnosis of ADHD following a comprehensive evaluation at a tertiary children's hospital between 2003 and 2008.

After a mean of 7 years, reevaluation was completed in 88 (73%) of children, and 70% of these children met diagnostic cri…

Reviewing Author

Martin T. Stein, MD

Disclosures

Consultant / Advisory boardPearson Neuroscience Advisory Board

Speaker’s bureauAmerican Academy of Pediatrics

RoyaltiesElsevier, Inc.

Editorial boardsJournal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics