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. 2006 Aug;52(8):961-4.

Approach to attention deficit disorder in adults

Manuel Matas  1
Affiliations

Approach to attention deficit disorder in adults

Manuel Matas. Can Fam Physician. 2006 Aug.

Abstract
in English, French

Objective: To review the etiology, diagnosis, and management of attention deficit disorder (ADD) in adults.

Sources of information: PsycINFO, PubMed, and Psychiatry 24x7.com were searched. Several books on ADD in adults were reviewed. I also drew on my own clinical experience assessing and treating adults with ADD for more than 20 years.

Main message: The classic triad of ADD symptoms are inattention, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity or restlessness. Although ADD is a well established brain disorder, the diagnosis remains controversial. Attention deficit disorder has been called a fad, not a legitimate diagnosis, but it is a well established, well documented, medical condition that can cause much suffering if left untreated. At one time we thought children would outgrow ADD at puberty, but we now know that many will continue to have residual symptoms throughout adolescence and adulthood. If left untreated, ADD can interfere with relationships, employment, and self-esteem. Treatment with stimulants and adjunctive care is often effective.

Conclusion: Attention deficit disorder in adults represents a substantial burden of illness. It can be diagnosed and treated successfully.

OBJECTIF: Faire le point sur le trouble déficitaire de l’attention (TDA) chez l’adulte.

SOURCES DE L’INFORMATION: PsycINFO, PubMed et Psychiatry 24x7.com ont été consultés. Plusieurs livres sur le TDA de l’adulte ont été révisés. L’auteur a aussi tiré avantage de son expérience clinique de plus de 20 ans dans l‘évaluation et le traitement d’adultes souffrant de TDA.

PRINCIPAL MESSAGE: Inattention, impulsivité et hyperactivité ou agitation constituent la triade classique des symptôme du TDA . Même si le TDA est un trouble cérébral reconnu, son diagnostic fait encore l’objet de controverse. On a dit du TDA que c’était une maladie à la mode, pas un vrai diagnostic, mais c’est une affection médicale bien établie et bien documentée qui peut causer bien des souffrances en absence de traitement. On croyait autrefois que le TDA disparaissait à la puberté, mais nous savons maintenant que plusieurs sujets continueront de présenter des symptômes à l’adolescence et à l’âge adulte. En absence de traitement, le TDA peut interférer avec les relations humaines, le travail et l’estime de soi. Un traitement comprenant des stimulants et certains soins d’appoint est souvent efficace.

CONCLUSION: Chez l’adulte, le trouble déficitaire de l’attention représente un problème de santé important. On peut le diagnostiquer et le traiter avec succès.

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Conflict of interest statement

Competing interests: None declared

References

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