Brain Changes in ADHD: A Meta-Analysis
Author Information
Author(s): Ian Ellison-Wright, Zoë Ellison-Wright, Ed Bullmore
Primary Institution: University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
In ADHD there would be gray matter deficits in the right caudate and right and left frontal lobes.
Conclusion
In ADHD there is gray matter reduction in the right putamen/globus pallidus region.
Supporting Evidence
- Meta-analysis identified significant gray matter reduction in ADHD in the right putamen/globus pallidus region.
- The study included 7 studies with a total of 114 patients with ADHD.
- Gray matter increases were not identified in ADHD subjects compared to controls.
Takeaway
Kids with ADHD have less gray matter in a specific part of their brain that helps with controlling attention and behavior.
Methodology
A systematic search for voxel-based structural MRI studies of ADHD was conducted, followed by meta-analyses of gray matter differences.
Potential Biases
There may be publication bias favoring studies with positive results.
Limitations
The small number of studies and potential publication bias may limit the findings.
Participant Demographics
The studies included a total of 114 patients with ADHD and 143 comparison subjects.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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