ADHD Patient Info

Common Tests or Labs to Diagnose ADHD

There is no specific test for ADHD. Gathering as much information on you or your child’s symptoms is the best way to get an accurate diagnosis and to rule out other possibilities. ADHD is diagnosed via a psychiatric assessment using the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder) as a reference.

Ia. Six or more of the following signs of inattention have been present for at least 6 months to a point that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level.

Inattention:

• Often does not give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.
• Often has trouble keeping attention on tasks or play activities.
• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
• Often does not follow instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).
• Often have trouble organizing activities.
• Often avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to do things that take a lot of mental effort for a long period of time (such as schoolwork or homework).
• Often loses things needed for tasks and activities (such as toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).
• Is often easily distracted.
• Often forgetful in daily activities.

Ib. Six or more of the following signs of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been present for at least 6 months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for developmental level.

Hyperactivity:

• Often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat.
• Often gets up from seat when remaining in seat is expected.
• Often runs about or climbs when and where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may feel very restless).
• Often has trouble playing or enjoying leisure activities quietly.
• Is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor".
• Often talks excessively.

Impulsiveness:

• Often blurts out answers before questions have been finished.
• Often has trouble waiting one’s turn.
• Often interrupts or intrudes on others (example: butts into conversations or games).

II. Some signs that cause impairment were present before age 7 years.

III. Some impairment from the signs is present in two or more settings (such as at school/work and at home).

IV. There must be clear evidence of significant impairment in social, school, or work functioning.

V. The signs do not happen only during the course of a pervasive developmental disorder, schizophrenia, or other psychotic disorder. The signs are not better accounted for by another mental disorder.

Differential Diagnosis:
Besides the above DSM-IV diagnostic criteria, the pediatrician will do a complete physical examination in order to rule out other disorders that could be responsible for some symptoms: