Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and task-related heart rate variability: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Icon for Elsevier Science Related Articles

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and task-related heart rate variability: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2019 04;99:11-22

Authors: Robe A, Dobrean A, Cristea IA, Păsărelu CR, Predescu E

Abstract
BACKGROUND: Research suggests that Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with autonomic nervous system dysregulation, but the findings were mixed.
METHOD: We conducted a literature review and meta-analysis to quantify the effect of ADHD on vagally-mediated heart rate variability (HRV). PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus, were searched for case-control or cohort studies reporting measures of vagally-mediated HRV, after a task demand, among individuals with ADHD relative to healthy subjects.
RESULTS: Thirteen articles comprising a total of 869 patients with ADHD and 909 healthy participants were included. As compared to controls, ADHD patients had reduced vagally-mediated HRV, corresponding to a small effect size (Hedge’s g = 0.20; CI 95% 0.01 to 0.40). Heterogeneity was high (Q (18) = 76.59, p < 0.001; I² = 77%). There was some evidence of small study effects. Task type, respiration rate assessment and associated comorbid disorders were statistically significant moderators.
CONCLUSIONS: These findings provide evidence for the associations between ADHD and autonomic dysregulation. Future studies addressing HRV reactivity are needed.

PMID: 30685483 [PubMed – indexed for MEDLINE]

via https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30685483?dopt=Abstract