Original articleNeural alterations in ADHD children as indicated by voxel-based cortical thickness and morphometry analysis

PurposeNeuroimaging studies provide vital information related to the neurobiology of ADHD, but there still exists a wide gap in relevant information. The present study aimed to elucidate the neuroanatomical alteration in Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children/adolescents.MethodsVoxel-based cortical thickness (VBCT) and voxel-based morphometry (VBM) was performed to examine neuroanatomic distinctions in 18 children/adolescents aged 7.5-13 years diagnosed with DSM-IV TR as ADHD (non-medicated). They were compared with 18 healthy matched controls.ResultsVBCT findings in ADHD children/adolescents revealed reduced cortical thickness in the left superior frontal, left orbito-frontal and left dorsal anterior cingulate cortex. VBM findings confirmed decreased gray matter volume in the left orbito frontal, left middle frontal/dorsolateral prefrontal, left middle temporal and left cerebellum in comparison to control group. A decrease in white matter volume was also observed in the left inferior frontal and left calcarine of ADHD children/adolescents.ConclusionResults reflect possible abnormal neuroanatomical development patterns in ADHD children.