PET and SPECT imaging in ADHD

Abstract

ADHD is a clinically heterogeneous neuropsychiatric disorder with a childhood onset and is often accompanied by comorbidities. Symptoms consisting of inattention with or without hyperactivity or impulsivity may result from disturbances of higher cognitive control, involving multiple regions of the brain which are functionally connected. Although the value of PET and SPECT in establishing diagnosis is limited, it has added to understanding the neurobiological basis of ADHD. Investigations of cerebral perfusion and glucose metabolism during resting conditions and specifi c tasks have led ADHD to be associated with reduced functionality of the prefrontal cortex and the anterior cingulate cortex, as well as the basal ganglia, cerebellum and the parietal lobe. In addition, there is a growing body of literature assessing the dopamine transporter, endogenous levels of dopamine, response to treatment with methylphenidate and the relationship with genotypes in ADHD.