Hypescheme: An operational criteria checklist and minimum data set for molecular genetic studies of attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders

Investigators engaged in mapping the genetic basis of attention deficit hyp eractivity disorder (ADHD currently use a number of measures for the collec tion of clinical information. This gives rise to difficulties in comparing datasets and research communications between independent groups, This paper describes the development of Hypescheme, which is an operational criteria checklist for ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disord er (CD), and is proposed as a minimum dataset for those engaged in molecula r genetic studies of ADHD. Hypescheme consists of a computerised data check list system that includes all the operational criteria required for both DS M-TV and ICD-10 diagnostic criteria and a systematic record of information about comorbid psychiatric, developmental, and neurological disorders. Usin g this data, an algorithm applies both DSM-TV and ICD-10 criteria to genera te operational diagnostics under both these systems. Hypescheme is not desi gned to replace current assessment protocols but to be a final common check list that can be completed by experienced researchers using all available d ata. Am. J, Med, Genet, (Neuropsychiatr. Genet.) 96:244-250, 2000, (C) 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.