Developmental/Behavioral Disorders

The longest and most complex study of methylphenidate (Ritalin) in preschool children shows that it can be safe and effective for some children in that age group who have attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD), according to the study's lead author.

The answer? We don't really know, according to Craig Newschaffer, PhD, associate professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. But fears of an autism epidemic have been overblown by the press and advocacy groups, said Dr. Newschaffer, speaking at the American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition today in Washington, D.C.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved Adderall XR (an extended-release formulation of mixed salts of amphetamine) as a once-daily treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescents 13 to 17 years old. That action bridges an "indication gap" between earlier approval of the product for patients 6 to 12 years old and for older (18 years) adolescents and adults.

An improved prognosis for children with autism depends on prompt and intensive intervention. That can happen only if the condition is screened for and diagnosed at a very young age.

Lately, I've spent a lot of time talking about the alleged link between thimerosal in pediatric vaccines and autism. Most of you have been asked by parents whether immunizations pose a risk of autism as well, and some parents are so frightened by rumors, press reports, and information on the World Wide Web that they forgo immunizations for their children altogether.

Q Parents of a 4 1/2-year-old boy in my practice are concerned because he takes too many risks. They report that he always seems to be doing something dangerous, which often results in injury.

At pediatricians' disposal today are numerous formulations of approved medications for ADHD--traditional psychostimulants and newer agents. We also have developed an appreciation of the value of a multipronged approach to this chronic disorder.

Step-by-step evaluation of an adolescent girl who may have ADHD highlights the strengths and limitations of the AAP diagnostic guidelines and offers insight into how to augment them.

Diagnosing and treating a child?s ADHD is often not enough. Most patients have coexisting developmental or psychiatric disorders that must be addressed.

Pediatric Puzzler: Weakness (thyrotoxic periodic paralysis)

The prognosis for teenagers with ADHD is better than ever, thanks to more effective therapies and greater understanding of how the disorder manifests itself in adolescence.

Autism and related pervasive developmental disorders are a challenge to diagnose. This review covers diagnostic criteria, conditions to consider in the differential, the evaluation, and treatment options.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder doesn&t disappear in teens. But it does look different, and failure to recognize and treat it can have a devastating impact.

Parents of children with ADHD need assistance adapting to their child's condition, enhancing his or her achievement and self-esteem, and getting the special help the youngster needs and deserves. These books, videos, and Web sites point the way.

Parents increasingly are turning to alternative therapies to manage their child's ADHD. This review of the pharmacology an toxicology of the most popular herbs and dietary supplements for treating ADHD and what the literature shows about their efficacy should help you advise parents.

The manifestations of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adolescence can be subtle. Pediatricians need to know how to identify teens with the disorder and provide treatment that meets their developmental needs.