Affiliations: Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine,
Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt | Pediatric Genetics Unit, Mansoura University
Children's Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt
Note: [] Correspondence: Mohammad Al-Haggar, MD, P.O. 732 Al-Khobar
31952, Saudi Arabia. Tel.: +96 638982022; Fax: +96 638951196; E-mail:
mhajjar2000@yahoo.co.uk
Abstract: As inattention and hyperactivity are highly prevalent among school
children, we aimed to introduce an overview on ADHD (attention deficit
hyperactivity disorder) in Delta regions of Egypt, to evaluate its diagnostic
accuracy, and to suggest a de novo method for diagnosis among Egyptian school
children. This retrospective epidemiological study was conducted on cases
registered in database files of Pediatrics Genetics unit, in Mansoura
University Children's Hospital, which serves all Delta regions of Egypt.
Initial diagnosis of 356 registered cases was based upon detailed history,
signs and symptoms without applying any strict criteria. Some cases were
receiving stimulants drugs however almost all were under behavioral therapy.
All cases were currently re-evaluated applying DSM-IV criteria (Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental disorders, 4th edition) and Conners' Developmental
approach. Diagnosis of ADHD was confirmed in 283 children excluding 73 cases
(20.5%) they were 211 boys and 72 girls (boys/girls ratio 3/1), age range 7–12
years (mean 9.5 ± 3.13 years). Most cases whether at
initial registration or during final assessment were associated with
hyperactivity/impulsivity however predominantly inattentive cases constituted
39.04%. Half of excluded cases were predominantly inattentive (49.3%) and 61.7%
of exclusion were due to clinical improvements. Other exclusionary causes
included sleep disorders, hyperthyroidism, communication disorders, mental
retardation and autism. Positive family history was reported in 49.8% mostly
among inattentive and combined types. ADHD is not uncommon in our community;
its frequency among cases referred for childhood diagnostic clinics
approximates 79.5%, and prevalence would be much lower if evaluated among
asymptomatic school children. Inattentive ADHD is frequently overlooked and its
response to therapy is usually satisfactory.
