Comparison of arterial spin-labeled perfusion magnetic resonance imaging between the Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder and the control group, ages of 6-12.

Abstract

Abstract This study utilized Arterial Spin Labeling-Magnetic Resonance Imaging (ASL-MRI) to explore the developmental trajectory of brain activity associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Pulsed arterial spin labeling (PASL) data were acquired from 109 children with ADHD and 58 children in a control group, all aged 6–12 years old. Participants were categorized into the age groups of 6–7, 8–9, and 10–12, after which comparisons were performed between each age group. In total, the ADHD group exhibited significantly lower activity in the left superior temporal gyrus and right middle frontal gyrus regions than the control group. Further analysis revealed: 1) The comparison between the ADHD group (N = 51) aged 6–7 and the age-matched control group (N = 22) showed no statistically significant difference between. 2) However, compared with the control group aged 8–9 (N = 19), the ADHD group of same age (N = 33) showed significantly lower ASL activities in the left postcentral gyrus and left middle frontal gyrus regions. 3) Further, the ADHD group aged 10–12 (N = 25) demonstrated significantly lower activities in the left superior occipital region than the age-matched control group (N = 16). These age-specific differences suggest variations in ADHD-related domains during brain development post age 6–7. Understanding these patterns may enhance ADHD treatment strategies.