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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Synonym(s)

  • ADHD
  • attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity syndrome
  • childhood hyperkinetic syndrome

Definition(s)

A behavior disorder originating in childhood in which the essential features are signs of developmentally inappropriate inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Although most individuals have symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity, one or the other pattern may be predominant. The disorder is more frequent in males than females. Onset is in childhood. Symptoms often attenuate during late adolescence although a minority experience the full complement of symptoms into mid-adulthood. (From DSM-IV)

Definition from: Unified Medical Language SystemThis link leads to a site outside Genetics Home Reference. (MeSH)   at the National Library of Medicine

 
Published: January 23, 2009