The diagnosis and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in patients with epilepsy

Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2013 Jun;13(6):351. doi: 10.1007/s11910-013-0351-6.

Abstract

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) can cause significant impairment in psychosocial and scholastic achievement. AD/HD should be appropriately managed even if patients have comorbid epilepsy. The diagnosis and treatment of AD/HD in patients with epilepsy presents several challenges. Differentiating independent problems in attention from frequent epileptic seizures is the first step in evaluating these individuals. Once this is accomplished the formal independent diagnosis of AD/HD can be pursued. Data from non-epileptic AD/HD populations should be applied with caution to patients with epilepsy. Once attention deficit disorder has been diagnosed formally, choices in treatment can create other problems as some pharmacological treatments for AD/HD pose a risk of exacerbating seizures. This article serves as a review for the diagnosis and treatment of AD/HD spectrum disorders in patients with epilepsy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / diagnosis
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / etiology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / therapy
  • Electroencephalography
  • Epilepsy / complications*
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans

Substances

  • Adrenergic Agents