3 distinct ADHD types discovered, brain study unveils

Dalem Roswell Sipin

As attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) cases inflate among the youth and adults, scientists scramble to investigate this issue in-depth and see if one diagnostic label can truly brand the disorder.

Researchers from West China Hospital of Sichuan University used brain network modeling and artificial intelligence (AI) to differentiate three ADHD “biotypes,” each with different brain patterns, symptom screening, and developmental paths.

The study, published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, has now redefined the current understanding behind ADHD as it analyzed brain scans of hundreds of children, piecing together a pattern behind each biotype.

This discovery may explain why individuals sharing the same diagnosis can experience conflicting symptoms and treatment results.

ADHD is divided into three biotypes, with varying symptoms. Those who fit Biotype 1, named as combined, experience severe combined symptoms coupled with emotional dysregulation which manifests as irritability and quick mental burnout. 

Moreover, biotype 2, labeled as hyperactive, shows hyperactive and impulsive signs. Some signs may include physical restlessness, overtalking and jumping between activities.

Finally, biotype 3, dubbed as inattentive, individuals battle chronic mental fog, disorganization and zoning out during conversations. Since this type lacks physical hyperactivity, it is the most heavily misdiagnosed or dismissed as laziness, based on an article by Dr. Kudrat.

Nevertheless, the study explains that the “biotypes” are not new diagnostic categories, since the findings need replication and thorough investigation, considering that ADHD is a clinical diagnosis based on behavioral evaluation.