Publication:

Association of ferritin level with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children

Background Dopamine is an important component in the pathophysiology of ADHD. Dopamine synthesis is regulated by the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase and influenced by iron deposits in the brain. Several studies have shown that low ferritin levels in children with ADHD and iron supplementation are said to show good clinical outcomes, but this study has never been conducted at Sanglah General Hospital.

Methods This study used an observational analytic study design with unpaired case control design. Research held in Policlinic RSUP Sanglah from July 2018 to April 2019.

Results In a total of 25 children with ADHD and 25 children without ADHD, median ferritin level was 43.7(7.9-77.0) in the case group and 68.2(33.1-319.0) in control group. Bivariate analysis of ferritin level categories using the chi-square test showed significantly different results. Low ferritin levels (<45 ng/mL) was obtained in 56% of the case group and 16% in the control group. Odd ratios determine the relationship between ferritin and the incidence of ADHD at 6.7 (95% KI 1.8-25.2). The results of multivariate analysis showed that adjusted OR was 6.5(95% KI 1.2-34.6) and was statistically significant with p value 0.027.

Conclusions There was correlation between ferritin levels and ADHD in children.