IAGNOSIS
in CHILDREN
in ADULT
Diagnosis of ADHD in Children
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The DSM-IV-TR criteria
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The diagnosis of ADHD is not dependent on a single test. Therefore, to diagnose ADHD in a child, several tests are needed which are:​
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To meet the criteria for ADHD, the child must have six or more symptoms present in two different settings for a minimum of 6 months.
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The additional stipulation of symptoms present in multiple settings is believed to minimize the potential for overdiagnosis of ADHD and subsequent overmedication.
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Furthermore, there must be evidence that these symptoms were present before the age of 7 years.
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Based on these criteria, three types of ADHD are identified:
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Predominantly inattentive- 10% to 15% of cases
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Predominately hyperactive/ impulsive- 5% of cases
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Combined- 80% of cases
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2. Physical examination
(including neurologic status)
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3. Patient or parent
interview
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4. Performance reports
Diagnosis of ADHD in Adults
In adults, ADHD is a clinical diagnosis that relies on their recollection of ADHD symptoms as a child to which the DSM-IV-TR criteria validated for children are applied. Although there is no single medical, physical, or genetic test for ADHD, a diagnostic evaluation can be provided by a qualified mental health care professional or physician who gathers information from multiple sources. These sources include:​
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1. ADHD symptom checklists
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2. Standardized behavior rating scales
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3. Detailed history of past and current functioning
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4. Information obtained from family members or
significant others who know the person well
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5. Tests of cognitive ability and academic
achievement to rule out a possible learning
disability