The Relationship Between ADHD and Autonomic Regulation: a Pupillometry-Based Study

Abstract Background It has recently been suggested that Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may also be associated with autonomic dysfunction, but the underlying mechanisms that alter autonomic regulation are still unknown. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between ADHD and autonomic dysfunction using data obtained via automated pupillometry, which is a noninvasive, easily repeatable, and objective test. Methods In total, 70 patients diagnosed with Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder by the same doctor as a child psychiatrist were referred to as Group I. The control group (Group II) consisted of 70 healthy individuals aged 6–18 years who visited the Ophthalmology clinic. Following a detailed psychiatric and ophthalmological examination, static and dynamic pupillometry measurements were performed and recorded by a Sirius 3D rotating Scheimpflug camera topographic system in a dark environment. Results When the static pupillometry values were considered, the difference between the scotopic and mesopic pupil diameter values between Groups I and II was found to be statistically significant. When the mean rate of change in pupil diameter was considered, the difference between the two groups was statistically significant ( p < 0.05). Conclusions In this study, the fact that the mean pupil diameters obtained as a result of static pupilometry values ​​were significantly higher in the patient group and the mean pupil dilation velocity was slower in the patient group may be significant indicators of autonomic dysfunction ADHD.