Attention Deficit Disorder
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a neurological disorder that begins in early childhood and can have a significant impact on a child’s school performance and social abilities. The clinical features of the disorder generally appear in early childhood and are present before seven years of age. The disorder affects 3% - 5% of school age children. Boys are affected more frequently than girls by a margin of approximately 4 to 1, but girls can certainly be affected.
Most cases involve some aspect of hyperactivity, which can range from fidgety behavior to overt reckless motion. Some children with ADD do not have any hyperkinetic features.
The diagnosis of ADD is purely clinical and is based on a very careful history by a physician. Treatment is available for the disorder and includes both pharmacological and non- pharmacological approaches. A combination of therapies is often employed to help the child reach his or her social and academic potential.
New England Neurological Associates has a learning diagnostic team consisting of pediatric neurologists, child psychologists, neuropsychologists, and learning specialists. One or more of these specialists may be involved in consultation with a child, depending on the particular child’s history. Consultation often starts with the child neurologist, who begins with a very careful history and physical, and decides whether the diagnosis is appropriate and whether further work-up consultation is required.
New England Neurological Associates staff with a particular interest in ADD include pediatric neurologists Dr. Peter Raffalli and Dr. Michael Robbins. The specialists of New England Neurological Associates also treat adult Attention Deficit Disorder.
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