Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder differential diagnosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Charmaine Patel, M.D. [2] Charmaine Patel, M.D. [3]

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder Microchapters
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Differentiating Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
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Diagnosis
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History and Symptoms
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Overview

As the individual symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder are common, and are seen in many psychiatric disorders, the differential is wide. In addition, there are many comorbid psychiatric conditions that occur with ADHD.

Differentiating Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder from Other Diseases

The differential for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is wide, as many of the symptoms overlap with the symptoms seen in other psychiatric illnesses. In addition, there may be comorbidity with other diseases such as seizure disorders and other disorders causing disruptive behavior. Learning disorders are also common in persons with ADHD. Common comorbid disorders include:

• Conduct disorder
• Oppositional defiant disorder
• Learning disorders
• Childhood bipolar disorder
• Childhood depression
• Normal response to a pathologic or abusive home
• Physical abuse or neglect
• Neuroendocrine abnormality such as hyperthyroidism

• Intermittent explosive disorder
• Neurodevelopmental disorders

• Intellectual disability (intellectual developmental disorder).
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Reactive attachment disorder
• Anxiety disorders

• Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder.
• Substance use disorders