Scarce studies have reported a relationship between Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and atopic symptoms (i.e. rhinitis, eczema), food allergy and asthma in children and adults. Results of the studies show a trend toward a positive relationship.

This study aims to explore the relationship between ADHD and atopy in treatment-naïve children referred to an ADHD consultation.

For 12 consecutive months, all children diagnosed with impairing ADHD and for who a psychopharmacological treatment was indicated were blood tested for the presence of a mixture of specific IgE (PHADIATOP® test). An allergist subsequently performed prick-tests on only those with positive tests.

63 children out of 102 included (61.8%) had a positive blood test. Age, gender and Body Mass Index did not differ between positive and negative groups. Children were more likely to have ADHD Combined (66/102). Rates of Opponent Defiant Disorder (ODD, 40/102) and Conduct Disorder (CD, 14/102) were similar between groups. Atopy is not with ODD or CD. Familial history of ADHD (36/102) or atopy (39/102) is significant. Prick tests confirmed the blood test in all cases. Rhinitis was most frequent (40/63) with moderate to severe intensity in 23 cases (67.7%), associated with a history of conjunctivitis in 21 cases (61.8%). Most youths had never been referred to an allergist although some of them had a persistent and severe symptomatology.

This is the larger study reporting a strong relationship between ADHD and atopy. All children referred for ADHD shall be screened for atopy and vice versa.