Evaluation of Some Blood Components as Inflammatory Markers in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

DHD is a common childhood neurobehavioural disorder defined by symptoms of developmentally inappropriate inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. A recent meta-analysis estimated the worldwide prevalence of ADHD to be 5.29%, making it the most prevalent psychiatric disorder of childhood. The social and economic costs of childhood ADHD are considerable, and difficulties often persist into adulthood. Children with ADHD are at high risk for developing adjustment problems, antisocial behaviour, substance abuse, other psychiatric disorders, and difficulties in education and work. Until relatively recently, the causal relation between ADHD and inflammation has remained unclear. The higher co-occurrence of ADHD with inflammatory and autoimmune disorders may suggest a range of underlying mechanisms, including an altered immune response, common genetics, and environmental links. It has also been suggested that increased cytokine release due to an inflammatory process may affect the prefrontal cortex functioning.