Two meta-analyses of the association between atopic diseases and core symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder - Scientific Reports
Source : https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-022-07232-1
Studies in the field of neuroscience and psychology have hypothesized that a causal association exists between atopic diseases and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Previous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have reported a higher risk of ADHD in children with atopic diseases; however, the relationship between ADHD symptoms and atopic diseases remains unclear.
Our study indicated that atopic diseases not only associated with ADHD but also ADHD symptoms severity. This association was even observed in children with subthreshold ADHD, indicating that atopic diseases may play a role in the spectrum of ADHD symptom severity.
• Source: Scientific Reports
• Conclusion: “Our study indicated that atopic diseases not only associated with ADHD but also ADHD symptoms severity. This association was even observed in children with subthreshold ADHD, indicating that atopic diseases may play a role in the spectrum of ADHD symptom severity.”
• Researchers reviewed observational cross-sectional and longitudinal studies to determine the relationship between atopic disease and ADHD symptom severity. Most studies demonstrated a significant relationship.
• Limitations of the current study include the fact that hyperactivity outcomes were measured in only a minority of participants. Furthermore, atopic disease was determined by clinician judgment or questionnaires.
• Researchers observed higher severity of ADHD-related behavioral symptoms in kids with atopic diseases sans previously diagnosed ADHD, thus suggesting that atopic diseases could be related to the spectrum of ADHD symptom severity in participants with subthreshold ADHD. This finding is novel.
• “According to the results of this study, while treating children with ADHD, clinicians should consider the possibility of comorbid atopic diseases,” concluded the authors. “On the other hand, the comorbidity of ADHD should be considered when treating children with atopic diseases. Moreover, clinicians should be aware of the increased ADHD-related behavioral symptoms in children with atopic diseases. Additional studies including more strictly defined criteria, studies investigating the mechanism underlying this association, and randomized controlled trials of related therapeutic strategies should be conducted.”