Is the Theta/Beta EEG Marker for ADHD Inherently Flawed?

J F Saad; M R Kohn; S Clarke; Jim Lagopoulos; Daniel F Hermens

doi:10.1177/1087054715578270

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Is the Theta/Beta EEG Marker for ADHD Inherently Flawed?

Journal article

Peer reviewed

Is the Theta/Beta EEG Marker for ADHD Inherently Flawed?

J F Saad, M R Kohn, S Clarke, Jim Lagopoulos and Daniel F Hermens

Journal of Attention Disorders, Vol.22(9), pp.815-826

2018

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054715578270

Appears in Thompson Institute Research Collection

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Abstract

Psychology

ADHD

FDA approval

theta/beta ratio

EEG power

cortical hypoarousal

Other Collaborations

Thompson Institute Special Collection

Objective: Despite advances in our understanding of ADHD as a neurodevelopmental disorder, robust biomarkers are yet to be established in clinical practice. More than 40 years of electroencephalography (EEG)-based research has culminated in the recent Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the theta/beta (EEG power) ratio (TBR) as a diagnostic marker of ADHD. Method: This review article focuses on resting-state EEG power research in ADHD. Results: Inconsistent findings in the literature and suggestions of reduced specificity threaten the utility of TBR as a biomarker of ADHD. The use of fixed EEG bands may be a significant limitation, particularly in youth, and alternative approaches are needed. Conclusion: We propose that a personalized theta-to-alpha cut point or "transition frequency" is a better frame of reference for the measurement of TBR. Such an approach is better placed to test maturational lag and cortical hypoarousal models of ADHD and may in turn have greater utility in supporting diagnosis.

Details

Title: Is the Theta/Beta EEG Marker for ADHD Inherently Flawed?
Authors: J F Saad (Author) - University of Sydney
M R Kohn (Author) - University of Sydney
S Clarke (Author) - University of Sydney
Jim Lagopoulos (Author) - University of Sydney
Daniel F Hermens (Author) - University of Sydney
Publication details: Journal of Attention Disorders, Vol.22(9), pp.815-826
Publisher: Sage Publications Inc.
Date published: 2018
DOI: 10.1177/1087054715578270
ISSN: 1087-0547
Organisation Unit: University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland; Thompson Institute
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99449329302621
Output Type: Journal article

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Collaboration types: Domestic collaboration
Web Of Science research areas: Psychiatry; Psychology, Developmental

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