Altered White Matter Microstructure in Children with ADHD: Insights from Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging and Tract-Based Spatial Statistics

Motivation: Research indicates that children with ADHD exhibit insufficient structural development of white matter, which may hinder communication between brain regions. Goal(s): This study aims to identify abnormal changes in the white matter microstructure of children with ADHD and explore their relationship with clinical symptoms. Approach: Using diffusion kurtosis imaging and Tract-Based Spatial Statistics, we will compare the white matter of ADHD patients to healthy controls, analyzing diffusion parameters and their correlation with ADHD-related clinical scores. Results: Results show reduced Fractional Anisotropy in the corpus callosum and right cingulum, highlighting potential for early ADHD screening. Impact: The study reveals that children with ADHD have reduced white matter integrity, particularly in the corpus callosum and right cingulum. These findings suggest that impaired information transfer in the brain may contribute to ADHD symptoms, aiding early diagnosis and intervention.