Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): does new research support old concepts?
OBJECTIVE
To examine the evidence for and against the classification of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) as a valid disease entity, as defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV ), criteria.


METHODS
Sources included but were not limited to published literature on ADHD accessed via PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/PubMed/).


METHODS
Peer-reviewed research, review articles, consensus statements, "white papers," and proceedings of professional meetings were used.


METHODS
Focused on evidence base and scientific validity of conclusions.


RESULTS
Evidence for a genetic or neuroanatomic cause of ADHD is insufficient. Experimental work shows that executive function deficits do not explain ADHD. The psychometric properties of widely used ADHD rating scales do not meet standards expected for disease identification.


CONCLUSIONS
ADHD is unlikely to exist as an identifiable disease. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are symptoms of many underlying treatable medical, emotional, and psychosocial conditions affecting children.
Furman
Lydia Mary
LM
Division of General Academic Pediatrics, Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA. Lydia.Furman@uhhospitals.org
D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000627:therapeutic use; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D007175:Impulsive Behavior / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy
D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants