Disorders Library
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Dopamine and norepinephrine dysregulation. Reduced prefrontal cortex volume and activity. Delayed cortical maturation.

Prefrontal cortex ADHD

© Public Domain · public-domain

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. Dopamine and norepinephrine dysregulation in fronto-striatal circuits underlies executive dysfunction. Delayed cortical maturation, particularly in prefrontal regions, is visible on longitudinal MRI. Stimulant medications increase synaptic dopamine and norepinephrine, improving signal-to-noise in attention networks. Adult ADHD recognition has expanded understanding of lifelong executive challenges.

Symptoms

InattentionHyperactivityImpulsivityExecutive dysfunctionEmotional dysregulation

Neurology

Dopamine and norepinephrine dysregulation. Reduced prefrontal cortex volume and activity. Delayed cortical maturation.

Treatments

Stimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamines)AtomoxetineBehavioral therapyCoaching

Gallery

ADHD brain imaging

ADHD brain imaging

Basal ganglia

Basal ganglia

Dopaminergic neuron

Dopaminergic neuron

Videos

2-Minute Neuroscience: Prefrontal Cortex

Neuroscientifically Challenged

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2-Minute Neuroscience: Basal Ganglia

Neuroscientifically Challenged

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