Differential Diagnosis for ADHD
The following differential diagnosis is organized into categories to help guide the diagnostic process.
- Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- ADHD: This is the most obvious diagnosis, given the presentation of symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. A comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including clinical interviews, behavioral observations, and rating scales, is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
- Other Likely Diagnoses
- Anxiety Disorders: Anxiety can manifest with symptoms of inattention and restlessness, which may be mistaken for ADHD. A thorough evaluation of anxiety symptoms and their impact on daily life is essential.
- Mood Disorders: Depression and bipolar disorder can present with symptoms of inattention, irritability, and mood instability, which may be confused with ADHD.
- Sleep Disorders: Sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome can cause fatigue, inattention, and hyperactivity, mimicking ADHD symptoms.
- Learning Disabilities: Learning disabilities, such as dyslexia or dyscalculia, can lead to difficulties with attention and academic performance, which may be misattributed to ADHD.
- Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Thyroid Disorders: Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can cause symptoms of inattention, fatigue, and mood changes, which may be mistaken for ADHD. Thyroid function tests are essential to rule out these conditions.
- Substance Abuse: Substance abuse or withdrawal can lead to symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and mood instability, which may be confused with ADHD.
- Traumatic Brain Injury: Traumatic brain injury can result in symptoms of inattention, memory problems, and mood changes, which may be misattributed to ADHD.
- Rare Diagnoses
- Neurodegenerative Disorders: Rare neurodegenerative disorders, such as frontotemporal dementia or Huntington's disease, can present with symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
- Infectious Diseases: Certain infectious diseases, such as Lyme disease or HIV, can cause symptoms of inattention, fatigue, and mood changes, which may be mistaken for ADHD.
- Genetic Disorders: Genetic disorders, such as fragile X syndrome or Williams syndrome, can present with symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and developmental delays, which may be confused with ADHD.