Thyroid function and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To examine thyroid indices in a community referred sample of boys with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) for evidence of generalized resistance to thyroid hormone (GRTH). METHOD: TSH, T3, and T4 values were gathered prospectively in 53 physician, school, and/or parent referred ADHD subjects, and in 41 age and gender-matched normal controls. RESULTS: None were in the range suggestive of global or pituitary thyroid hormone resistance. CONCLUSIONS: GRTH is rare, and thyroid function should not be measured routinely in nonfamilial ADHD.