Development of novel biomarkers for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Offentlig prosjektsammendrag

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common neuropsychiatric disorder among school-age children with an estimated worldwide prevalence of 5.9 - 7.1%. Clinical diagnosis currently relies on the assessment of behavioral patterns and characteristics, using questionnaires and information provided by close observers of the child's behavior. A lack of confidence in diagnosis, which is inherently subjective as it is limited to interviews, review of patient history and rating scales, has been demonstrated to be one of the barriers to effective treatment. In addition, the diagnostic process consists of many elements and can therefore be time-consuming and expensive. However, despite the clear need for development of an objective and independent diagnostic test for ADHD, such a tool remains elusive. Although the underlying differences in the central nervous system (CNS) in children with ADHD have been widely studied, the findings from neurobiological research have not so far been translated into diagnostic methods suitable for use in clinical practice. Mentis Cura is responding to this need with developing Katla - a simple, yet powerful system that provides a quantitative measure of brain activity. Using a five-minute brain scan (electroencephalogram, or EEG), Katla produces a quantitative report that a clinician can use to support their differential diagnosis of ADHD.