Source Localization of Audiovisual Multisensory Neural Generators in Young Adults with Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that exhibits unique neurological and behavioural characteristics. Our previous work using event‐related potentials demonstrated that adults with ADHD process audiovisual multisensory stimuli somewhat differently than neurotypical controls. This study utilised an audiovisual multisensory two‐alternative forced‐choice discrimination task. Continuous whole‐head electroencephalography (EEG) was recorded. Source localization (sLORETA) software was utilised to determine differences in the contribution made by sources of neural generators pertinent to audiovisual multisensory processing in those with ADHD versus neurotypical controls. Source localization techniques elucidated that the controls had greater neural activity 164 ms post‐stimulus onset when compared to the ADHD group, but only when responding to audiovisual stimuli. The source of the increased activity was found to be Brodmann Area 2, postcentral gyrus, right‐hemispheric parietal lobe referenced to Montreal Neurological Institute (MNI) coordinates of X = 35, Y = −40, and Z = 70 (p < 0.05). No group differences were present during either of the unisensory conditions. Differences in the integration areas, particularly in the right‐hemispheric parietal brain regions, were found in those with ADHD. These alterations may correspond to impaired attentional capabilities when presented with multiple simultaneous sensory inputs, as is the case during a multisensory condition.