The potential role of fatty acids in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

As currently defined, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) encom passes a broad constellation of behavioural and learning problems and its d efinition and diagnosis remain controversial. The aetiology of ADHD is ackn owledged to be both complex and multifactorial. The proposal considered her e is that at least some features of ADHD may reflect an underlying abnormal ity of fatty acid metabolism. Clinical and biochemical evidence is discusse d which suggests that a functional deficiency of certain long-chain polyuns aturated fatty acids could contribute to many of the features associated wi th this condition. The implications in terms of fatty acid treatment propos als are also discussed; such a form of treatment is relatively safe compare d to existing pharmacological interventions, although further studies are s till needed in order to evaluate its potential efficacy in the management o f ADHD symptoms. (C) 2000 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.