title: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adults.
abstract: Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), characterized by inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, or a combination of these, is being increasingly recognized in adults. Adult ADHD prevalence rates range from 1% to 4%. The pathophysiology of adult ADHD is likely multifactorial, including genetic, environmental, and neurobiological influences. Though ADHD diagnostic criteria per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-IV-TR) were developed based on child samples, the symptoms are believed to be similar in adults, with some developmental differences in symptom presentation. This article identifies common presenting complaints of adults who have ADHD and provides information useful for differential diagnosis of these patients. Specific strategies for pharmacological and nonpharmacological intervention are also presented.
authors.affiliation: Baylor Family Medicine Residency at Garland, 601 Clara Barton Boulevard, Suite 340, Garland, TX 75042, USA. shannomo@bayorhealth.edu
authors.forename: Shannon B
authors.initials: SB
authors.lastname: Moss
authors.forename: Rajasree
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Nair
authors.forename: Anthony
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Vallarino
authors.forename: Scott
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Wang
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015897:Comorbidity; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008774:Methylphenidate / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors; D012931:Social Environment
chemical_list: D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants; D008774:Methylphenidate