Abstract
Purpose of Review
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are both increasing in prevalence and commonly co-occur with each other. The goal of this review is to outline what has been published recently on the topics of ASD, ADHD, and the comorbid state (ASD+ADHD) with a particular focus on shared phenomenology, differential diagnosis, and treatment considerations.
Recent Findings
ASD and ADHD have shared genetic heritability and are both associated with shared impairments in social functioning and executive functioning. Quantitative and qualitative differences exist, however, in the phenotypic presentations of the impairments which characterize ASD and ADHD. For ASD interventions to be maximally efficacious, comorbid ADHD needs to be considered (and vice versa).
Summary
The research on ASD and ADHD suggests some overlap between the two disorders yet enough differences to indicate that these conditions are sufficiently distinct to warrant separate diagnostic categories.
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References
Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance
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Kevin M. Antshel reports a grant from Shire Pharmaceutical Company and personal fees from Arbor Pharmaceutical Company. Natalie Russo declares no potential conflicts of interest.
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Antshel, K.M., Russo, N. Autism Spectrum Disorders and ADHD: Overlapping Phenomenology, Diagnostic Issues, and Treatment Considerations. Curr Psychiatry Rep 21, 34 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-019-1020-5
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-019-1020-5