CCN...I, too, wish there existed a specific test...especially being a clinician treating kids. The brain imaging evidence of ADHD is inconclusive, sometimes even demonstrating opposite findings. I was reading information from a psychiatrist (sorry forget name) who was discussing the proposed changes in the DSM5 that is due 2013. He specifically noted the difficulties in diagnosing ADHD and proposed that the diagnosis umbrellas a number of syndromes which could account for the brain image variability....yes, it is often a guess.
One thing I wanted to mention on this thread is the importance of medical rule-outs when ADHD/other behavioral issues are suspected. Simple tests of
lead levels, thyroid function, certain vitamin deficiancies, celiac or even PKU along with more complex genetic testing if warranted (fragile X,Klinefelter's ) are really minimally invasive. I can't tell you how many times I have to send a child back to their PCPs for a proper work-up.
It amazes me that these tests aren't routine (I'm guessing it has to do with cost). My DS8 has been tested for celiac and gluten, at my request. I'm glad you mentioned the others - I'm writing those down
The CAPD test this friday was also as a result of my insistence: I had to ask twice for it and provide examples of his speech oddities and language comprehension difficulties before we were referred.
I'm not anti-meds - not at all - I think some kids are saved by them. I just think they should be last on the list after all the medical rule-outs have been done. Thankfully my son seems to be fine without them so far. Mind you, I think he's easier than some (either that or I'm just used to him and my perception of what's "easy" is off, lol)
