Exploring the Link between ADHD Combined Subtype and Anti-Yo Antibodies

Neuroinflammation is known to play a role in the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with recent evidence suggesting a potential autoimmune mechanism involving anti-Purkinje cell antibodies. This study aimed to explore this association and examine if there is a specific subtype of ADHD linked to these antibodies.

The study involved 112 drug-naïve children diagnosed with ADHD during their first psychiatric assessment. Diagnosis was confirmed using the K-SADS interview and ADHD rating scale, while WISCIII and a validated word list assessed potential dyslexia. Anti-Yo antibodies (PCA-1) were detected through an indirect immunofluorescence assay.

The results demonstrated:

• Approximately 49.1% (55) of the children tested positive for Anti-Yo antibodies, which is lower than findings from previous studies.
• Among those positive for Anti-Yo antibodies, the combined subtype of ADHD was the most prevalent. 
• No significant association was found between ADHD with dyslexia and the presence of Anti-Yo antibodies.

To conclude, even though the prevalence of Anti-Yo antibodies in this ADHD cohort is lower compared to earlier studies, it remains noteworthy, with a higher likelihood of finding these antibodies in children with combined ADHD compared to other subtypes.

Source: Donfrancesco R, Nativio P, Melegari MG, Chiarilli W, Lacerenza RM, Villanova M. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder combined subtype and Anti-Yo antibodies. Minerva Pediatr (Torino). 2024 Dec 20. doi: 10.23736/S2724-5276.24.07599-2. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39704671.