[Attention deficit syndrome. Basic aspects of its diagnosis and treatment].
BACKGROUND
The attention deficit syndrome is one of the commonest behavior disorders of infancy, although it is considerably underestimated.


METHODS
The aetiology of attention deficit syndrome is multifactorial since genetic, environmental, nutritional and psychosocial factors have been found to be associated with its development. Diagnosis depends mainly on the identification of behavior changes especially of inattention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity: it should be made at home and at school and based on the exclusion of severe organic and neurological disorders which also present initially with similar characteristics. Electrophysiological studies may be useful since multiple electroencephalographic changes have been reported, as have prolonged latency of III and V waves of brain stem evoked potentials, The best management requires educational therapy combined with controlled medical treatment. Use of stimulants should be carefully considered and the tricyclic drugs are preferably the first pharmacological option.


CONCLUSIONS
Current findings regarding the repercussions of attention deficit syndrome in adults shows the need for early diagnosis and treatment of the condition so as to avoid severe personality disorders including antisocial and criminal behavior. It is essential that the parents and the child himself understand the condition in order to achieve satisfactory results of long term treatment.
Arriada-Mendicoa
N
N
Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugia Manuel Velasco Suárez, México DF, México. arriada@internet.com.mx
Otero-Siliceo
E
E
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002648:Child; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004569:Electroencephalography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male
D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants