Differential Diagnosis of ADHD and Sensory Modulation Disorder in the Preschool Years

Background: Several studies have revealed elevated rates of co-occurrence between ADHD and other neuro-developmental disorders, predominantly related to motor, language, cognitive and sensory functioning. Difficulties in responding to sensory input in a graded and adaptive manner have been defined as sensory modulation disorder (SMD). Differential diagnosis between ADHD and SMD is often challenging, especially in young children.

Objective: The aim of the present study was to try to find research works of co-occurrence between ADHD and sensory modulation disorder (SMD) in preschoolers.

Methods: Literature retrieval was conducted in relevant databases.

Results: There are still no published studies which referred to our target population. Research works which deal with young children will be presented as well as emerging data from a sample of preschool children with ADHD and deficits in sensory functioning from our department.

Conclusion: The present study supports the need for the development of objective diagnostic parameters of disturbances in sensory functioning in order to explore the hypothesis that SMD and ADHD are separate disorders.