Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms in pervasive developmental disorders:: Association with autistic behavior domains and coexisting psychopathology

Background: Symptoms as in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD) are frequent among individuals with pervasive developmental disorders ( PDD). The aim of the present study was to examine the impact of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity on the clinical phenotype of children and adolescents with PDD. Sampling and Methods: A total of 182 subjects ( 41 females) diagnosed as having PDD were split into a high ( PDD +) and a lower ( PDD) attention problem group using the median of the Child Behavior Checklist ( CBCL) syndrome scale 'attention problems' ( median T score = 75). The groups were compared with regard to the degree of coexisting psychopathology, as measured by the remaining 7 CBCL subscales, and autistic core features assessed by the Autism Diagnostic Interview- Revised ( ADI- R) and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule using a multivariate analysis of covariance adjusted for age, IQ and socioeconomic status. Results: The PDD+ subjects exhibited a significantly higher degree of general psychopathology than the subjects in the PDD subgroup, regarding both internalizing and externalizing symptoms. In addition, the PDD+ subgroup tended to exhibit more impairments on the social interaction scale of the ADI- R. Conclusions: Clinicians should adjust treatment plans to ensure comprehensive and effective treatment for both PDD and associated ADHD. A dual diagnosis may be essential to the implementation of effective treatments. Copyright (c) 2007 S. Karger AG, Basel.