The impact of ADHD on the cognitive and academic functioning of children with NF1

Dev Neuropsychol. 2012;37(7):590-600. doi: 10.1080/87565641.2012.695831.

Abstract

We compared cognitive functioning, academic ability, and the predictors of academic underachievement in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) (n = 132), children with NF1 and comorbid attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (NF1 + ADHD) (n = 60), and unaffected controls (n = 52). Results indicate the presence of ADHD burdens some aspects of cognitive functioning and learning in NF1. Inattention and executive dysfunction are general characteristics of the NF1 cognitive phenotype and significantly undermine academic achievement across children with NF1.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Analysis of Variance
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / complications*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / epidemiology*
  • Child
  • Cognition Disorders / diagnosis
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Learning Disabilities / diagnosis
  • Learning Disabilities / etiology*
  • Linear Models
  • Male
  • Neurofibromatosis 1 / complications*
  • Neurofibromatosis 1 / epidemiology*
  • Neurofibromatosis 1 / psychology
  • Neuropsychological Tests
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Surveys and Questionnaires