Electroencephalographic alterations in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder A single-center observational study.

Abstract

Introduction: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects daily functioning. The potential of video electroencephalogram (V-EEG) and rhythm map analysis for the early diagnosis of ADHD, particularly in at-risk children, has been investigated. The objective of the present study was to evaluate electroencephalographic alterations in children with ADHD.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed at the Center for Neuropsychological Evaluation and Advanced Neurotherapy (CENNA) in Quito-Ecuador from January to March 2022; the demographic characteristics, V-EEG use, and rhythm map findings were documented.

Results: The sample included 73 patients aged 3 to 16 years, 21.92% of whom were women and 78.08% of whom were men. The average age was nine years. All patients underwent V-EEG as part of their evaluation, revealing slow waves (delta range) in 30% (n=22) of patients. The bilateral temporal region was the most affected in 63.64% (n=14) of the patients with slow waves, followed by the frontal areas in 18.18% (n=4), occipital regions in 9.09% (n=2), frontotemporal regions in 4 55% (n=1) and parietal regions in 4.55% (n=1).

Conclusions: V-EEG, which reveals slow waves in bilateral temporal regions, may be a valuable tool for diagnosing ADHD. These results indicate the need for further research to confirm these findings and establish the validity and clinical utility of V-EEG in ADHD patients.