As you know from your son, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), one of the most common behavior problems in childhood, may include inattention (difficulty concentrating), hyperactivity (restlessness), and impulsive behavior (doing things without thinking or self-control). It most commonly is noted in childhood, but can be a lifelong condition.
Currently, there are no specific medical tests that diagnose ADHD. The diagnosis usually is made by showing problems with attention or hyperactivity in different settings (for example, both at home and in school). A physician can provide tools to teachers and caretakers who can assist with making the diagnosis. In addition, evaluation by a physician is important to make sure there are not other medical and psychiatric causes of these behaviors.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic technique that uses a magnetic field to produce pictures of parts inside the body. Researchers have been using MRI to see if there are changes in the brains of children with ADHD as compared with children who do not have it. Some of the changes they have been researching include the size of the brain, the amounts of different types of brain cells (grey versus white matter), and the amount of blood flow to certain parts of the brain.
While some studies have shown differences between groups of children with and without ADHD, other studies have not. No studies have actually shown that any measured difference was caused by ADHD. In some cases, the average of whatever is being measured was different between groups but there was a lot of overlap, making it hard to set a level that would make the diagnosis of ADHD. In addition, results of the studies may depend on whether or not a child has been on ADHD medication at the time of the MRI, or at any time in the past.
In summary, MRI is a tool that currently is not useful for making the diagnosis of ADHD or for monitoring of children who already have the diagnosis. We must wait for further research studies to know whether or not MRI can help in these ways. If you are concerned that your daughter may also have ADHD, the next step is to talk with her doctor.
