Neuropsychiatric Features, ADHD and Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome in Children and Adolescents With Celiac Disease: A Controlled Study

BACKGROUND: Celiac disease is an important gastrointestinal disorder affecting many children and adolescents worldwide. Although psychiatric conditions associated with celiac disease have been previously investigated, studies examining its relationship with newly identified psychiatric diagnoses are limited. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and a newer diagnostic construct, cognitive disengagement syndrome (CDS). METHOD: The study included children and adolescents aged 7-18 years with a confirmed diagnosis of celiac disease who were followed at a university hospital, as well as a control group of nonceliac patients attending the same hospital. The two groups were compared in terms of CDS scores, ADHD scores as well as depression and anxiety levels. RESULTS: A total of 128 participants were included, comprising 64 children with celiac disease and 64 controls. Statistically significant differences were observed between the groups in total ADHD and total CDS scores (p < 0.05). In addition, depression and anxiety scores differed significantly between the groups (p < 0.01). Specific CDS items, such as SCT-1 and SCT-10, also showed significant differences (total Hedge's g = 0.799, p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that celiac disease is associated with both ADHD and CDS. Therefore, in the clinical management of children with celiac disease, it is important to consider not only gastrointestinal symptoms but also potential neuropsychiatric manifestations, including attention and cognitive disengagement difficulties, in order to provide comprehensive care.