To estimate the coexistence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) traits in an adult sample diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); to compare individuals with ASD traits to those without, in terms of functionality, quality life and clinical outcomes; to explore the effects of ADHD medication on three main outcomes (clinical, quality of life, and functionality) in those with only ADHD and in those with coexistence of ASD and ADHD. Prospective longitudinal study of an adult sample diagnosed with ADHD. Data were collected on age, gender, medications and on scales: Autism Spectrum Quotient (AQ-10); Adult ADHD Clinical Outcome Scale; Adult ADHD Quality of Life Questionnaire; Weiss Functional Impairment Rating Scale. A sample of 165 participants was recruited. The AQ-10 showed that almost half, n = 74 (44.8%) of the participants had traits of ASD. Longitudinal analyses demonstrated that people with ADHD and ASD traits have worse clinical outcomes, quality of life, social skills, and family functioning, compared to those with ADHD only. The study shows a high rate of co-existence of ASD in adults with ADHD. Comorbid ASD traits were associated with poorer overall clinical and functional outcomes, quality of life, social skills, and family functioning. Study limitations with particular reference to dropout rate are considered. Implications for improving services are discussed.
Adamis et al. (Tue,) studied this question.