ADHD can be challenging to diagnose in adolescents.11 One problem is that obvious symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity are displayed less frequently in adolescents as compared with younger children.11 Adolescents also spend less time with their parents, and parent perceptions of symptoms may be inaccurate.11 Thus, a careful and comprehensive assessment that includes parent-, teacher-,
and self-reported measures of ADHD symptoms and functioning must be conducted.11 Chemistry panel, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, and thyroid function tests would not be helpful in establishing a definitive diagnosis.
- Evaluation forms completed by the patients teachers.
11. Steinhoff KW. Special issues in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in adolescents. Postgrad Med 2008;120:60–8.
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