Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: an up-date

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hiperactivity disorder has the distinction of being both the most extensively studied child mental disorder and yet the most controversial. This article describes the classification, epidemiology, clinical description, diagnostic considerations, etiology, prognosis and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Therefore the main objective of this article is that it can be used as a practice guide to paediatrician to identify children at risk of being hyperactive, inattentive and suffering for their impulsive conduct. Once correctly identified children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder should be treated. At this point medication treatment is clearly established as effective in terms of suppressing the core symptoms of the disorder in the short and the middle term, and in general it appears that stimulant medication is safe and well tolerated by the majority of patients.