Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children with nocturnal enuresis

Purpose: Although the relationship between enuresis and psychopathology has been studied intensively, little is known about the prevalence of specific psychiatric disorders. We investigate the prevalence of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children with nocturnal enuresis and correlate these data with clinical subtypes of enuresis/incontinence. Materials and Methods: A total of 120 children with nocturnal enuresis 6 to 12 years old participated in a prevalence study. A diagnostic interview was conducted with parents, questionnaires were completed by parents and teachers, and medical files were consulted. Results: Of all enuretic children 15% were diagnosed with the full syndrome of ADHD and 22.5% met the criteria of the ADHD inattentive subtype. Data revealed that the older the children (9 to 12 years), the higher prevalence of attention deficit disorder or ADHD. Nocturnal polyuria had a significantly higher incidence in hyperactive/impulsive children but there was no significant difference in bladder function between enuretic children with or without a comorbid diagnosis of ADHD. Conclusions: The prevalence of attention deficit disorder or ADHD in nocturnal enuresis is significantly increased, especially in older children. The incidence of nocturnal polyuria is slightly increased in children who meet at least the criteria of ADHD hyperactive/impulsive subtype. No other associations between enuresis and ADHD were found.