Child health · UKMLA & AKT

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise attention deficit hyperactivity disorder — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.

Key high-yield points

  • Affects ~5% of children; 2-5x more common in boys (girls underdiagnosed - more often inattentive subtype)
  • Heritability ~70-80% - one of the most heritable psychiatric conditions
  • ~50% continue to meet criteria in adulthood - inattention is the dominant persisting feature
  • Pathophysiology: reduced dopaminergic and noradrenergic activity in prefrontal cortex → impaired executive function, inhibitory control, working memory

Unlock the full Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder revision

Get the complete high-yield notes (6 more sections covering investigations, management and complications), 10 practice questions, mock exams and AI tutoring. Start free.

Related UKMLA topics