Thyroid Function and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

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.