Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder: current findings and treatment

The most recent literature on attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder indicates that it is a highly co-morbid disorder, which appears to be transmitted in families. The nature of the familial transmission, whether through genes or environment, and the extent of the contribution of either mode of transmission are by no means understood, Current modern neuroimaging studies on abnormalities in brain structure, function and neurotransmission represent a further step in gaining knowledge on the brain correlates of abnormal behaviour and psychology. Based on the current bias of a predominant biological-genetic model of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder, treatment studies have focused on medication, neglecting psychosocial interventions. However, only a balanced understanding of the multidirectional causalities between brain dysfunction, brain dysmorphology, behaviour, environment and genes will make the development of truly targeted treatment possible. Curr Opin Psychiatry 14:309-316. (C) 2001 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.