[Language processing in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder].
BACKGROUND
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a heterogeneous condition and often coexists with other disorders that may go undetected, such as communication and language disorders.


OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate semantic processing of language in children with ADHD by recording the N400 component of cognitive evoked potentials.


METHODS
The N400 component was recorded in visual mode while a semantic congruence/ incongruence task was being performed by a sample of 36 children with ADHD and 36 control children.


RESULTS
Latency and amplitude of the N400 component were seen to increase and decrease, respectively, in all areas of the brains of the children with ADHD with respect to the children from the control group.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings clearly reveal the existence of a deficit in the semantic processing of language in children with ADHD that is associated to their attentional dysfunction.
Instituto Neurocognitivo INCIA, Clínica Nuestra Señora del Pilar, Barcelona, España. mariannf@eresmas.com
M A
MA
Idiazábal-Alecha
D
D
Guerrero-Gallo
M M
MM
Sánchez-Bisbal
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D005071:Evoked Potentials; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language